2008 Wilson Winery Zinfandel. 2007 Star Lane Vineyard Merlot. Style note: A very vibrant Merlot with concentrated red/black fruit (cherries, pomegranate, black currant, great balance, layers of flavor/nuance/texture, and would be terrific with either grilled meat or roasted salmon. This week I've tasted some excellent wines! MORE >>

The handpicked fruit from the excellent 2008 vintage (warm days, cool nights) are from estate vineyards and consist of 83% Merlot, 12% Sangiovese and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. In 1124 the seeds of a house of wine were planted. This also adds richness and texture. 14% Alcohol and $35 SRP MORE >>

Last year I reviewed a 2007 Petite Sirah from Concannon Vineyard , so I was delighted to recently receive the 2008 vintage. The Conservancy collection includes Pitite Sirah, Merlot, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. could not wait to open the 2008 Petite Sirah. The color was a very dark purple. The wine was perfect. MORE >>

They are generally still in the learning stages, and prefer merlot above all other varietals. A very interesting piece I found via Wine and Spirits Daily , written by Megan Haverkorn. . The stat I found most interesting is that almost 1/4 of wine consumers feel overwhelmed by all the wine options out there.  ARE YOU TRADITIONAL OR SAVVY?  . MORE >>

Pineau can be red when it is made from Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and/or Cabernet Franc, but in the USA it is far more common to see white Pineau, made from a host of grapes including Colombard, Folle Blanche, Ugni Blanc, and Semillion. What on earth are you thinking, pal?!? Maybe they order apricot schnapps over there. MORE >>