*** Chez Ray Merlot, CA, 2008

Now we'll give a try to the Chez Ray Merlot, made from fresh California grapes.  Description of the associated winemaking for the 2008 vintage (coded M8) is here.

In the glass: Chez Ray Merlot shows as in medium deep red in the glass, it never gets opaque. 

On the nose: Poured cool with a brief decant and swirled vigorously, this purebred young merlot shows a fleshy, slightly meaty, mid-red berry nose.

On the palate: The first elements on the palate area still-young, yeasty red berry overtone, then bearing down with stronger black walnut, smoke and slashing alcohol tones.  Wants to settle down a bit still.

In summary: Overall, potential for being solid base in a blended mix.  Rates three stars on the five-star Spirit of Wine scale. 


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