Collio Strikes Again

[Innkeeper]

1998 Venica, Merlot, Collio D.O.C. ($15.00). Oh, my goodness. Inky in the glass, with blackness on the nose and upfront; berries, currents, et al. Greatest impact on the palate with 79 year old vines and commensurate earthiness contributing to the complexity. And the finish; I won't tell. A fantastic value, and in a world by itself and themselves.

What did it marry with? How about a merlot (Sutter Home) marinated porterhouse steak, patted dry, rubbed with OO and Morton Rub, and grilled over charcoal with mesquite chips.

WONDERFUL!