Merlot is a great wine made from Bordeaux wines. They are red, dry, and dark grapes mostly from California. They originated in Italy and Southern France. So, what is the best rated Merlot in Northern America? Let us explore the options, for under fifteen dollars.
The Best Merlot
The 2005 Lange Twins California Merlot comes from the California region of Lodi. It tastes like blackberries, even though it is red and is farmed from vineyards from Brad and Randy Lange. The price is a sweet Thirteen dollars a bottle.
A 2005 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Columbia Valley Merlot, comes from Washington. It is definitely dark with a taste of spicy oak. This helps the taste from becoming overwhelming. It is an affordable eleven dollars a bottle.
If you like Keltie Brook, try his 2004 North Coast Merlot at only fifteen dollars a bottle. This Merlot is compared to Steve Macrostie’s more pricier label. This Merlot has black and cherry currants, but the color is definitely red.
Try the Raymond R Collection. A great 2005 California Merlot at only fifteen dollars will complement a great, special occasion. The reason is Cabernet Sauvignon is used in a quarter of the blend. This makes this Merlot minty and medium bodied. It is more focused and structured.
If you really want to splurge and have the top of the line Merlot, the best rated Merlot in North America is Leonetti Cellar 2006 Merlot from the Columbia Valley in Washington state. It rates an impressive ninety-six out of one hundred.
This Merlot is aromatic, bright, and vivid. The reason is cherries and berries. This Merlot maybe young, but the flavors will last a long time. There is even an added bonus of Carmenere, which is black pepper to make an interesting combination of flavors.
