Looking for an extremely versatile red wine? One that can take you from summer's best grilled fare through winter's hearty stews in one easy label? Then, check out Ancient Peak's 2007 Merlot (to buy direct) - a delicious bargain in the under $20 price category.
For starters, this wine will take you through a series of scents - coming out of the gates with ripe red raspberry and cherry aromas that are closely followed by a subtle blend of cocoa, vanilla and espresso. On the palate, similar fruit flavors make their mark with more intensity and now joined by blackberry and the silk-driven textures of very supple tannins. Both the wine's overall balance and the medium-bodied profile are well-presented and make it remarkably food-friendly. Pair this Merlot with anything from grilled chicken, to pork chops and beef and vegetable stew to spaghetti and meatballs.
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