Red Diamond Merlot, 2007

Wine: Red Diamond Merlot, 2007
Region: Washington
Nose: Black cherry jam
Price & Place: $10, Jewel, Binny’s, etc.

Merlot in general has gotten a bad rap as of lately but there is no denying the wine's appeal. Merlot is generally packed with deep, dark berry fruit and hints of cocoa, herb and earth with a soft structure. Its velvety texture makes Merlot instantly appealing and an obvious alternative to similar, more tannic Bordeaux varieties. Now this Red Diamond is another value priced label from the Ste. Michelle wine group (owners of Columbia Crest). Red Diamond Merlot components are 80% Merlot, 15% Syrah, 3% Cab Franc, and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. This had flavors of big dark fruits, black cherry and blackberry. The finish was a bit abrupt but for ten bucks it’s a good Wednesday wine. Again, I did not love it but it was far from being offensive!

Slainte!
TCW