Today we review a 2009 blend of 75% merlot, 25% cabernet sauvignon from France. It’s $10 at Total Wine.
If you ever wonder why some people say that U.S. wines are too sweet, this is a wine for you to try. It’s just merlot and cabernet, but it tastes NOTHING like the merlot and cabernet that most Americans are familiar with. Smell: pure alcohol. Taste:
Dried cherry and coffee. Lots of dry cocoa-like tannins on the finish. Almost bitter, yet has a soft leathery texture. Serious. Elegant. Medium bodied. Understated. Tastes “tight” and too reserved when first opened, gets better on day 2. This dark burgundy-red wine from Bordeaux is absolutely killer for $10. I say give it a try, especially if you don’t drink French wine. Maybe pop open a Washington or California merlot to go with it. Compare and contrast. Let us know what you think!