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A typical Merlot is light on the palate with aromas and flavors of black cherry, currant, cedar and green olive. Typically, it is not complex … at least not when compared to Cabernet Sauvignon and other red grape varietals. The tannins (what make a wine “dry”) range somewhat, but are usually less than that of other reds. This makes Merlot an excellent choice when introducing someone to red wine. We’ve featured here four different wineries’ interpretations of this classic red. Each gets the Alcoholmanac stamp of approval. Go out and buy these reds today and join us in our tastings. Let’s begin, shall we?
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Featured Wines -
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By Pete Bressert, Balzac Wine Bar
Graves – France
Vintage: 2008
From the famed growing region in Bordeaux, this wine is a blend of 50% Sauvignon, 40% Semillon, and 10% Sauvignon Gris. Semillon is another white grape which is often blended with Sauvignon Blanc. Sauvignon Gris is a genetic mutation of Sauvignon Blanc that produces pink tinged fruit. A pale yellow color, the nose is intense and complex with fresh fruit aromas associated to a timbered vanilla taste, which was inherited by the 6 months spent in barrel. The wine is smooth and develops fragrance of toasted bread and fruit. A fresh and elegant wine on the palate, I most prefer the wine with scallops with a tarragon cream sauce.
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Featured Wines -
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By Pete Bressert, Balzac Wine Bar
Burgundy - France
Vintage: 2002
Bow down and give props to the greatest chardonnay on Earth! With some age on this wine, the color is a dark straw and aromas of lemon and toasted oak envelops one’s olfactory. This is not the butter bomb that most would associate from California, but a restrained power that can only be found in the Grand Crus of France.
The finish is long and still quite persistent. Given its price tag, save this wine for your most intimate of gatherings. ~ $165
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Featured Wines -
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By Pete Bressert, Balzac Wine Bar
Dundee, OR - USA
Called the “Lucky Edition,” the 13th release of this nine-varietal blend never disappoints. The nose of spiced orange is followed by flavors of tropical fruit, peach and restrained honey. It is sure to keep all those at the table happy and is particularly good with candied yams. ~ $16
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Featured Wines -
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By Pete Bressert, Balzac Wine Bar
Napa Valley, CA - USA
Vintage: 2007
The Kongsgaard family first planted vines in the late 70s in land that the family has owned since the 20s. This Chardonnay rivals the greatest Burgundies, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why. An opulent expression to be sure, toasted oak is balanced by a rich mouthfeel and nuances of dried pineapple and coconut. I drank a bottle of this with my mom over the holidays while munching on calamari fries and equally rich dipping sauce. This is a wine that will change your life. ~ $90
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