Decoy, California (United States) Merlot 2021

 As you might imagine, even the entry level Merlot from the undisputed king of the variety (i.e., Duckhorn, the parent company here) is a better than good one.  Add in a vintage that has already established itself as one of the greatest in recent memory, and you would be right to guess that this bottle represents serious value.  It does indeed, presenting itself as a crowd pleasing, all purpose styled red wine with lively wood tones that balance the ripe cherry fruit well.  It’s ready for your end of summer grilling.  Do any color meat you like, or mix and match.  And, perhaps best of all, it should be easy for you to locate a few bottles at a discount.