Harry and Maggie Wetzel harvested their first crop at Alexander Valley Vineyards in 1975. In 1979 their production was up to 10,000 cases, and they began distributing their wines nationally. Since those days the Alexander Valley, located just northeast of Healdsberg, California, has achieved a reputation for producing some of the finest wine grapes in Sonoma County, California.

One of those quality grapes is Merlot, and the 2006 Alexander Valley Vineyards Wetzel Family Estate Merlot is a fine example. Winemaker Kevin Hall calls this "a Merlot that thinks it's a Cab." That means that this is no soft wimpy Merlot. It has big fruit, but with a strong backbone of tannin from it's 12 months in new and old, French and American oak. We tasted this one against three other quality Merlots and it was the clear winner, especially for those who love the bigger style of most Cabs. The wine abounds with the flavors of black cherry, plum and blackberry, with that wonderful lean tannin finish containing a hint of vanilla.

The Wine Enthusiast scored this one an 88, and my score might be a little higher, as I like that Cab comparison. If you enjoy Cabernet Sauvignon with steak, try this Merlot, it will blow your socks off!

World Beverage 400
6190 Highway 400
Cumming, GA 30040
(678) 513-6284
www.worldbeverage400.com