The last couple of Wine Wednesday selections have been about items new to me and also the area in which I live. And while I usually just pick just one wine, today I've decided to pick one grape; two bottles.
I like to experiment so when I looked on my counter this week and saw two bottles of merlot (when I typically have none), I decided to try them side by side. I thought it would be especially fun since they appeared to be so different, at least geographically; one from Chile, the other from California.
First up was Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi. This was exactly what I expected from an entry level California merlot. It was juicy with lots of plums and some vanilla. The wine was smooth and went down the hatch easily. A good wine for your Memorial Day cookout, especially considering the price; in the $10 and under range.
I've tried a few of the Casillero del Diablo wines but never the Merlot. This one comes from Chile and I could immediately taste a difference. While still full of lush dark fruit, this one was more herbal, a common characteristic of Chilean wines. I also tasted some cocoa. There was a bit more structure and it costs a few more dollars; but only a few. Another good choice for holiday grilling!
Both wines are good values and easy to find. Perhaps you have done similar experiments? Let me know! Cheers!
Ah...happy some things will never ever change, like Wine Wednesdays :)
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