Merlot is among the most versatile (not to mention tasty) of all red grape varieties. In California, it’s often used to craft 100% varietal wines — wines that are all about the variety. Often, however, vintners will embrace Merlot’s Bordeaux roots and blend it with one or more other varieties to create complex and delicious cuvees.

If you’re a fan of red wines, you owe it to yourself to explore the vinous wonders coming out of America’s Pacific Northwest. That gorgeous part of the country is known for its breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure opportunities and, more and more, its world-class wines.

It snowed in Chicago last week. That was a day after record rains had caused widespread flooding. Normally, flooding comes after snow, but it has been that kind of extended winter in Chi-town. Spring has definitely “sprung” in some parts of the country, but it’s holding out in others.