2010 Iron Rock Cellars California Merlot

About This Wine

We love what Christian Moueix once said about Merlot.

Moueix is the proprietor of the world’s most famous producer of Merlot, Chateau Petrus in Bordeaux, as well as Dominus Estate in the Napa Valley. In other words, he’s a guy who knows Merlot.

Moueix compared Merlot to Esperanto, which is the “international language” created to foster understanding among people of different countries and cultures. Said Moueix: “Everyone can speak Merlot.” How true. It’s perfect for a vast array of occasions, it pairs well with many dishes and types of cuisine, and it’s extremely easy-drinking.

All of those assertions accurately describe the 2010 bottling of Merlot from Iron Rock, a California label that crafts a low-tannin rendition that’s easy to love. Our tasting panel members have savored it with gouda cheese, as well as a mushroom pizza. But it’s equally enjoyable as a sipping wine, accompanied by nothing more than a good book — in any language.

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:Black Cherry, Assorted Berries, Plum & Chocolate
• Aging Vessels:Assorted Oak Barrels
• When to Drink:Now Through 2013
• Food Pairing Suggestiona mushroom pizza, or gouda cheese.

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