($45):  So much Merlot is consumed thoughtlessly as a pre-dinner drink — as in “I’ll have a glass of Merlot” — that consumers could be excused if they think grape is incapable of producing serious wine.  Chappellet’s 2015 Merlot should dispel that idea.  Ripe and dense, a meaty aspect complements its dark fruit flavors character.  Its complexity shows sip after sip as it sits in the glass. Its fleshy suave texture makes is a good choice with a steak or other robust meat tonight.
94 Michael Apstein May 8, 2018