2009 3 Muses California Merlot

About This Wine

Looking for a red wine to serve with chicken? Stop!

Traditionally, chicken — whether it’s baked, broasted or fried... and whether it’s lightly seasoned or flavored with “11 herbs and spices” — is served with white wine. Chardonnay is usually a good match, and so are varieties such as Chenin Blanc and Pinot Grigio.

Rare is the red wine that doesn’t simply overpower the flavors of poultry, leaving the diner with a culinary conundrum. But as one member of our tasting panel discovered, the 2009 California Merlot from 3 Muses is a wonderful match with both chicken and turkey — as long as you’re noshing on the dark meat of the respective bird.

The wine — a blend of Merlot and other red varieties — is soft and supple, and because its alcohol level is just 12.5%, it’s extremely food-friendly. And, in an admittedly rare occurrence, that friendliness extends even to our formerly feathered friends.

About Merlot

Similar to Cabernet Sauvignon but with less tannin and fruit. Delivers earlier maturing wines. Often blended with Cabernet; on its own may soften with age, though fruit flavors may fade.

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:Merlot and Other Red Varieties
• Grape Source:Select Vineyards in Various California Growing Regions
• Aromas & Flavors:Plum, Cherry, Blackberry and a Hint of Toasty Cocoa
• Aging Vessels:Assorted Oak Barrels
• When to Drink:Now Through 2013
• Food Pairing Suggestiondark meat chicken or turkey, or pasta with a red sauce.

Member Ratings