The 2008 Monte Bello will (probably) be made from just cabernet sauvignon and merlot for the first time in twenty-five years. Difficult to compare to recent vintages (which have all included at least some cabernet franc or petit verdot) this is less flamboyant than the 2006 and 2007, and will benefit from extended cellaring. MORE >>

From the Tuscan region of Montalcino comes this mouthwatering blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Sangiovese grapes.?? Another blend from Il Borro of 75% Syrah and 25% Sangiovese reflects a subtle nose of red cherries, currants and leather, with hints of vanilla and a finish of spices, namely cinnamon and cloves. ??The alcohol content.?? MORE >>

They are all pretty much blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc and Petit Verdot. Some are Cabernet Sauvignon based (meaning the majority of the blend is Cab) and some are Merlot. Ah, the Holidays. New York is full of festivities and gatherings and friends and family. Speaking of the perfect gift what about wine. MORE >>

No Merlots (OK, maybe 1) and no Cab's (OK, maybe 1 or 2).  And two wines in their appellation series that are of interest are the Carmel "old vine" Carignan & the Carmel Petit Sirah.  Those are: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot & Malbec. I'm sorry for the delay in writing this post.  MORE >>

There was also a Merlot, Cab, and then 4 zinfandels. Their 2004 cabernet which is actually a Bordeaux blend of 76% Cabernet, 18% merlot, 4% Petit Verdot & 2% cab franc. Their 2005 "Home" Zinfandel, blended with 3% Petit Sirah, had a very pleasant minty menthol thing going on that went very nicely with the ripe fruit. MORE >>