Swanson Oakville Merlot 2002 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Ripe berries, milk chocolate, and spice on the nose

Round, plush texture on the palate

Dark berries, plums, chocolate, and oak notes on the finish

Don't diss Merlot- just drink good ones! This is one of the most reliable Napa Valley Merlot's, and I recommend it as a wine to enjoy with red meat or a richly flavored pasta dish.

This 2002 tasted awefully good with lots of ripe berry and chocolate. The key is that it's not overly oaked, which can mask the fruit flavors. Rather, the oak treatment here lends balance and refinement, along with added spice nuances.

Expect to pay $32 or so, however you can often find it for less. Raise a glass!