J. Lohr, Paso Robles (Central Coast, California) Merlot 2018

 I have said it before, and it applies again – J. Lohr is tough to beat when it comes to wines that satisfy at prices that allow for household stock-up purchasing.  This Merlot shows well vintage after vintage, and with the 2018 you’ll find pleasure in rich black fruit, generous oak spice, and enough grip to handle marbled meat fresh off the grill.  Count me as a big fan of the entire segment of their lineup.