We started with a couple roses for the early arrivals. Then on to the main Merlot event. I must say, although there were some lovely Merlots (the Duckhorn was the consensus favorite, with nice things said about the Silverado and Malmaison), I still must admit that I prefer a cabernet or zinfandel for the same price. But good to know! Here's the list, with favorites in bold:
- 2007 Côtes de Provence Rosé Château du Rouet Cuvee Reservée $12.99: lovely light rose in the funny shaped bottle.
- 2006 Domaine de Fontsainte Gris de Gris Corbieres $13.99
- 2003 Columbia Crest "Grand Estates" Columbia Valley Merlot $8.99
- 2000 La Fleur Chantecaille, St.-Emilion $15.99
- 2003 Duckhorn Napa Merlot $44.99: a famous name in California merlot -- you really can't go wrong with this bottle, but it's not a bargain.
- 2005 Malmaison, Moulis $24.99: in the decanter, still very young, but shows great potential and opened up nicely over the course of the evening.
- 2005 L'Ecole No. 41 Columbia Valley Merlot $29.99
- 2005 Pipeau, St-Emilion $28.99: I preferred the 2005 to the 2004, but others felt differently.
- 2004 Pipeau, St-Emilion $29.99
- 2003 Silverado Napa Merlot $21.99: nice, good value, easy drinking, but with decent structure.
- 2005 Mille Roses, Haut-Médoc $25.99: one of the favorites from last month's cabernet tasting -- since this is 40% merlot, seemed fair to put it in for contrast. Still lovely, silky smooth. Probably not destined for long aging, but drinking great early.
