Searching for good brand of Merlot

[Amy]

It's for an engagement party and I don't want to look silly, so any help would be appreciated. A GOOD bottle of Merlot?? I hear that California or Chilean brands are good. Is this true? And if you can get more specific it would be great!! I know nothing about wine!! Thanks!!

[Bucko]

Two good value current releases:

1997 Columbia Crest, Merlot, Columbia Valley, $12. Blueberries, blackberries, a dollop of oak and a long, fruity finish all combine to make a tasty package at a great price. Case buy for those summer parties!

1997 Hogue, Merlot, Barrel Select, Columbia Valley, $15. Bright black cherries and plums are balanced by modest oak spice and a long finish. A consistently delectable wine at a fair price.

[mrdutton]

These might be a bit more expensive than $10 to $15 per bottle, but I've grown fond of:

1994 & 1996 Pahlmayer
1994 & 1996 Liparita
1994 & 1996 Cafaro
1994 Robert Sinsky Vineyards

The 1994's are very hard to impossible to find here in Virginia Beach, VA.

[santiago ruiz]

Casillero del Diablo.
Merlot
Thats the ONE !!
Not expensive
Chilean
Winspectator March edition...." best Buy"
Good look !

[dunbar]

Sta.Ema Merlot from Chile is nice, about US$8-10.. There is an excellent 60% Cabernet and 40% MErlot as well from the same Winery.

[Caesar]

Amy, you didn't mention anything about price, so I won't assume that you're not willing to part with $20-$30 for a solid bottle of wine(not that such wines can't be had for less). My per sonal recommendations would be:

1997 Rutherford Hill Merlot, $20
1997 Gary Farrel Merlot, Russian River, $28

Both of these wines, in my humble opinion, are wonderful. The Rutherford Hill has a little more backbone, while the Farrel leans more towards the fruit. Both have quickly become personnal favorites. Luck!

[Drew]

Check the Best Buys section for 1998 Blackstone California Merlot $9.99 or one step higher Blackstone Napa Merlot $17.99. Both are good.

Drew