Beverage Dynamics is the largest national business magazine devoted exclusively to the needs of off-premise beverage alcohol retailers, from single liquor stores to big box chains, through coverage of the latest trends in wine, beer and spirits.
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/777147
www.beveragedynamics.com January/February 2017 • Beverage Dynamics 41 (96) Duckhorn Three Palms Vineyard 2013 (Napa). It is probably fi tting that one of the origi- nal pioneers of Merlot continues to produce this classic version sourced from one of the valley's original single-vineyard sites. Winemaker Renee Ary takes a classical approach, adding balanced amounts of Cabernet, Malbec, and Petite Ver- dot, and then aging for 18 months in rich French oak. A classic new-world Merlot, rich, complex, bursting with lean silky fruit. ($98.99) (96) Nearco, Col D'Orcia 2012 (Sant' Antimo, Italy). A lovely example of Tuscan winemaking, outside of the Sangiovese box. Half Merlot, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and a touch of Petit Verdot. Youthful ruby color in the glass, with aro- mas and fl avors of red fruit, and hints of vanilla and spice. A long and elegant fi nish. ($42) (95) The Weekender Experience 2009 (Napa Valley). A venture of Donny Sebastian and the Lamonica Family, who own prime vineyards just outside of the Stag's Leap AVA. They pro- duce fi ve stunning wines, displaying gorgeous varietal characteristics along with subtle terroir hints. The Merlot is beautiful and elegant with a lush fl oral bouquet that leads to fl avors of blue- berry, black currant and a slight toasty nuance. The velvety texture fi nishes with supple tannins that balance the whole. Even die-hard Caber- net Sauvignon afi cionados will love this Merlot! ($44.99) (95) Miner Stagecoach Vineyard Merlot 2013 (Napa Valley, CA). Dark ruby in the glass, the nose is dominated by powerful dark fruit, and some vanilla. The palate follows along the same line, with good weight and length. Truly lovely. ($40) (95) Chateau Barrail Chevrol 2014 (Fronsac, Bordeaux). A classic example of the appellation. 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Hints of blackberry, cherry and spice lead to a lengthy fi nish with fi rm tannins and rich earthy notes. Nice now, it will develop for fi ve years or more. Also, it's a great value! ($14.99) (95) Franciscan Reserve Merlot 2013 (Napa Valley, CA). Nearly all Merlot, with a small amount of Syrah, and a hint of Cabernet. Quite deep in color, with lots of black cherry, some WINE SELECTIONS R E TA I L E R The Beverage Dynamics National Retailer Wine Panel recommends a lineup of top quality/value Merlots. FOR OUR LATEST ROUND OF NATIONAL RETAILER WINE PANEL REVIEWS, we tasked panelists to taste Merlot. 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 associate editor Kyle Swartz at kswartz@epgmediallc.com or 203-855-8499 x2225. RATING SYSTEM ★★★★★ Five Stars (92-100) A top-flight wine. Superior in taste and character and provid- ing an outstanding price/value relationship. ★★★★ Four Stars (86-91) A very good wine and an excellent value. A wine for which customers will keep coming back. (97) Alexander Valley Vineyards Estate Merlot, 2014 (Alexander Valley, Sonoma). The Alexander Valley AVA has been com- pared to Bordeaux in terms of growing con- ditions, and this vintage continues a 30-year tradition for producing classic, rich, full-bod- ied Merlots. Winemaker Kevin Hall has crafted a beautiful wine with rich, juicy black fruit fl avors with hints of pepper and spice. Fifteen months in oak has added a rich struc- ture. 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. ($20.00)