Sterling 2003 Merlot

Despite an initial offering of ripe, fleshy plum and black cherry, it turns simpler at midpalate before an earthy, waxy, cedary edge works into the fold. Drink now. 99,000 cases made.–JL

Wine Spectator Rating: 84

Price: $22

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Our friend Alex brought this wine over after I claimed that I don’t drink anything less than $20 anymore (after a 3-day hangover, over cheap wine) . He purchased it from Safeway for $26 (i think.) And it was GOOD! In fact, it was SO GOOD that this was the wine that broke me in to drinking Merlots again. Like a non-red meat eater, I claimed never to drink Merlots again, until I tasted this wine. It was smooooooooooth, very dry (which I like! I like DRY!), smoooooooth on the tannins (oh did I already say smooth?), and with a very silky smooth pleasant finish (oh there’s that “smooth” word again!). I enjoyed this wine and have bought it over and over and over again. I’m not sure I like the Safeway price, but at Cost Plus World market, I’ve found the 2002 version for only $20. I have yet to try the 2002 Merlot.