image courtesy of MerlotMe
It baffles and perturbs me that some wine drinkers are still shunning Merlot. Really, if THAT movie (Sideways) has placed negative thoughts about Merlot in your head, please consider this an intervention. Now is the time to replace that problematic film’s erroneous messaging with this mantra: Merlot is elegant. Merlot is delicious. Merlot bashers are missing out on some mighty fine wine.
image courtesy of MerlotMe
Praised for its lushness and approachability, Merlot isn't aggressive but it's no wimp; it absolutely has the capacity for power and finesse. I was recently invited to participate in the #MerlotMe campaign, an online effort focused on sharing the diversity and beauty of Merlot. I was happy to add my voice to the powerful chorus of Merlot lovers.
During the duration of the campaign, I tasted many excellent wines that were powerful examples of Merlot's many charms. However, there were three wines that really captivated me. Whether you’re a Merlot devotee or one of those pesky detractors, I’m convinced these wines will impress you. And although my selections are from California, great Merlot wines are produced around the globe. Get a glass and explore!
Pahlmeyer Merlot 2016, Napa Valley, California ($90)
What a majestic Merlot! I shared this bottle with one of the most discerning sommeliers I know and he shared my enthusiasm for this exceptional wine. Truly, he can’t stop singing its praises. And I can’t blame him. Pahlmeyer is an elegant retort to Merlot bashing. Rich and concentrated but not unwieldy, it is supple and rich with voluptuous berry flavors and sassy hints of spice and tinges of earth and herbs. As the flavors open in the glass, it really takes you on a journey. This is a wine to savor.
96.5% Merlot, 2.5% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Sauvignon
Seavey Merlot 2016, Napa Valley, California ($65)
Plush and rich, this impressive wine beautifully showcases Merlot’s capacity for complexity and finesse. Gorgeous plum and dark berry flavors get added oomph from hints of savory herbs, violet, graphite, and chocolate. There’s a rugged minerality to this Merlot that melds seamlessly with the voluptuous fruit. Only 302 cases made of this sensational sip.
95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
Chelsea Goldschmidt Merlot 2017, Salmon’s Leap, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California ($20)
Named after winemaker Nick Goldschmidt’s daughter, Chelsea Merlot is feisty and elegant. Rich and juicy but not jammy, Chelsea has ripe red and black fruit flavors with perky pops of spice and graphite. A really pretty and polished wine that doesn’t break the bank!
100% Merlot
