2008 Blackstone Merlot, while not my personal favorite, is a much loved darling of my parents.  It’s low price point, and frequent mail-in rebates attract them to this straight-forward and easy to drink Merlot for daily occasions.

Coming from California, this wine is very much a new world Merlot.  There are no touches of earthiness, and the wine is very fruit forward.  The oak is subtle, but evident, and the tannins are not aggressive.  It also retains Merlot’s softness, but occasionally does seem to boarder on slightly flabby.  While it does not have a particularly noteworthy aftertaste, this will not ordinarily detract from this wine’s steady ability to be a work-house for enhancing an everyday meal.

Sight:  A deep ruby red, nearly purple, with a bright magenta edge.

Smell: Cherries and a small amount of oak and smoke greet the nose, while a touch of light black pepper follows.  The wine is slightly jammy, but has a hint of green pepper as well.

Sip:  Cherries, black pepper, and mild oak all surround the tongue.  Light – moderate tannins, and a firm, but moderate mouth-feel accompany.  Not particularly complex, but straight-forward. [ABV 13.5%]

Savor: Bitter cranberry is sustained with light plum skin for a moderate length.  Tannins remain light, and unobtrusive.

Price: $7.95

Woodbridge, California
www.blackstonewinery.com
(707) 833 – 1999