This is serious Merlot — dark and dense with even chocolate nuances. And a touch of leafiness, just to reinforce it is real Merlot. The tannins are polished, but it’s not a soft wine, so I wouldn’t recommend sipping it before dinner. Best to balance its intensity and impact with a steak. Its layers of flavors will delight throughout the meal.
William Hill Estate Winery, Napa Valley (California) Merlot 2010
By Michael Apstein