Merlot has been relegated to a relatively forgotten status among world-class red wines. This rendition, however, should convince you that the Merlot grape should regain its stature as a top echelon variety. This is delicious red wine. The nose reveals pure black cherry, blackberry and raspberry fruit scents backed by hints of violets, vanilla, cocoa and baking spices. The flavors are pure, luscious and ripe, with black and red fruit flavors enhanced by hints of vanilla, chocolate, cinnamon and clove. The flavors unfold to reveal a long and intriguing finish. Wines like this will re-establish Merlot as one of the world’s great red wine grapes.
Ridge Vineyards, Santa Cruz Mountains (California) Merlot 2011
By Wayne Belding