Clos du Bois, Alexander Valley (Sonoma County, California) Merlot 2008

 Here is a Merlot that does what this variety wants to do but all too rarely is allowed to do–namely, offer full flavor without excessive heat or alcohol, and so feel soft and seductive on the palate.  It’s not a Cabernet wannabe (as so many Merlots are these days), but rather a supple, inviting red wine that seems proud of its varietal identity.  (Tasted blind at the 2011 Sonoma County Harvest Fair wine competition.)