Matanzas Creek was among the first of the California wineries that came to embrace Merlot and treat it as something other than a filler wine to soften a Cabernet-based blend. Matanzas was also among the best at Merlot and it still is. The 2012 is a thing of beauty, with complex notes of plum, raspberry and bing cherry, firm but integrated tannins, and hints of savory herbs and mocha. A stunning wine for under $30.
Matanzas Creek, Sonoma County (California) Merlot 2012
By Robert Whitley