More from California but in a very interesting Merlot from Kenwood Vineyards.

Winemaker:  Kenwood Vineyards
Varietal:  Merlot
Vintage:  2010
Appellation:  Sonoma County, California
Price:  $17.49

Notes:  This Merlot was very dark garnet in the glass.  The bouquet presented whiffs of red berries and moist loam.  It is medium-bodied and gently velvet on the tongue.  Flavors for me were a core of ripe strawberry and black cherry, clay, some spice notes, a little leather, a bit of ash, and clove.  Modest-to-moderate tannins brought menthol to the finish which also had some lingering hints of pine.   Alcohol is at 13.5%.  I thoroughly enjoyed this selection.

Important: I am not a professional sommelier or wine connoisseur.  See “About” for the full disclaimer.