www.cheersonline.com
34
• January/February 2017
MERLOT ON THE MIND
(97) Alexander Valley Vineyards Estate
Merlot, 2014 (California). The Alexander
Valley AVA has been compared to Bordeaux
in terms of growing conditions, and this
vintage continues a 30-year tradition for
producing classic, rich, full-bodied merlots.
Winemaker Kevin Hall has crafted a beau-
tiful wine with rich, juicy black fruit fl avors
with hints of pepper and spice. Fifteen
months in oak has added a rich structure.
The end result is silky elegance with a long
lingering fi nish. A wine unfazed by fads that
has stayed true in style for those who truly
appreciate merlot. ($24.99)
(96) Duckhorn Three Palms Vineyard
2013 (California). It's probably fi tting that
one of the original pioneers of merlot contin-
ues to produce this classic version sourced
from one of the Napa Valley's original
single-vineyard sites. Winemaker Renee
Ary takes a classical approach, adding
balanced amounts of cabernet, malbec and
petit verdot, and then aging for 18 months
For our latest round of wine reviews, we tasked national panel with sampling and rating a
selection of merlots. As always, these selections include brief tasting notes, a rating and
the wine's retail price, which can vary from store to store and market to market. Unless
noted otherwise, the price refl ects a 750-ml. bottle. If you're a beverage professional with a
specialty in wine and you're interested in participating in the panel, please contact managing
editor Kyle Swartz at kswartz@epgmediallc.com or 203-855-8499 x2225.
RATING SYSTEM
Five stars (92-100 points)
A top-fl ight wine. Superior in taste and
character and providing an outstanding
price/value relationship.
Four stars (86-91 points)
A superb wine and an excellent value.
A wine for which customers will keep
coming back.
Three stars (80-85 points)
An above-average wine at a reasonable price
point, one that many consumers will enjoy.
