Donati - Merlot - Templeton (Paso Robles)

Don't get me wrong. I love me some fruit forward, full-medium bodied, over-ripe zin.

But opening up a mellow, earthy Donati Merlot after a "jammy" zin brought some relief to my palate and rocked my senses to sleep after a long day at work.

The next day, I noticed more fruit, but surrounded by oakiness. Wonderful balance. I just sipped and loved every minute of it.

The third day, more acidic qualities exuded. I should have finished the bottle the previous day...

(lessons of evolving wine... always finish the bottle if you're enjoying it - never assume it will be the same the next day) 

Price: This bottle is $27, but we bought it directly from the tasting room in Templeton, near Paso Robles, and the bottle came with a complimentary tasting. Currently, this bottle is out, but let this be a testament for wonderful Merlots!

Havens Wine Cellars - Merlot - Napa - 05

"There are two clear choices with California Merlot right now: Splurge and buy the best, or search for reliable values. Unfortunately, Merlot's middle ground is tougher terrain, because too many merlots in the $20-$40 price range offer only so-so quality." - Tim Fish, Wine Spectator, November 2009 issue

In response to Fish, I found a wonderful Merlot in the $30 range. Even better, it's on sale for $9.97 at the Wine House!

This wine is certainly hearty. Hints of V8, red meat, and pepper but smooth enough for me to lounge with. I tried the Haven's Syrah, which had some of the same scents and flavors, but it was rough. You HAVE to eat a steak with that one; you couldn't just sit and enjoy a glass of it like you could with this Merlot.

But why NOT have a steak with this wine? Amazing with food, enjoyable on its own, with complex flavors that continue to stimulate your senses. Therefore, put your negative preconceptions of Merlot aside (note: Sideways is NOT a wine bible!) and stock up on this bottle while the prices are down.

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refer to blog entry The Wine House - no risk buy guide