Hello everyone,
Let me introduce myself. I am the main contributor for wines, bubbles and spirits. From time to time, I will post here with reviews and ideas on how to improve your wedding fun. My goals are to give you some tips and ideas on what to get depending on your needs to complement your overall wedding experience. This month is my first blog so I would like to welcome everyone. I came across a fun article in the Wine Spectator (Nov 30th 2009 edition) that discussed the state of Merlot in California. As you know Merlot has taken its share of abuse ever since the movie sideways and as a result Pinot Noir has become extremely popular.
Interestingly enough I was intrigued by their commentary on many of the cheaper Merlot and to see what you could get in that $10 price range. The other day after finishing my shopping at the grocery store, I stopped in the wine section as I always do to see if any super sales were on. Luckily, the Beringer Merlot 2006 was staring right at me. I think the fact that it was marked off from $11.99 to $7.99 was even more intriguing. Today I decided to open it and give it a run with my lunch. I was eating a prosciutto sandwich to match with my Merlot. It actually worked just fine. I have to say that for $7.99 I was quite pleased. The Beringer Merlot had notes of oak, vanilla, and quite a bit of tannins. A lot of fruit forward and not a long finish but at $8 I don’t really expect that either. I could have decanted it a bit so that it would not be so “tannic” on the palate. That is a great trick especially on younger wines. Don’t be afraid to decant for 30 mns even if it is a $7.99 wine. It will greatly improve its taste and smoothness. For $7.99, this would be a good little wine if you were on a very strict budget. I encourage you to give it a try. Remember though always try the wines you are going to serve your guests before you buy them. And most important as long as you like it that is what’s most important.
Until next time, enjoy your wine!!!
For $8?? Not bad all all