Glen Ellen 2006 Merlot – California

Now this isn’t going to turn us into Merlot fans overnight, but we love the Glen Ellen region in Sonoma county, California, and saw this wine on the shelf for a mere $5. The nose is of smoke, plum, and maybe some mild, soft fruit like apricots or peaches. The tastes are soft (it is a cheap Merlot, after all) and actually quite pleasant. Nice acids and tannins. Fruit tastes are muted, but are given a bit of zing by a hint of plum, apricot, sage, and green pepper. At this price, a Yes. $5 on sale, usually $6.