2001 Sieur D'Arques-Vichon-Merlot

[Innkeeper]

Other than the Bordeaux Blends primarily merlot from the East Bank that I have a number laid down at all times, I turn to Italy for my varietal merlot. Specifically from the region in northeast known as Collio. Two favorite producers are Bortoluzzi, Isonzo Del Friuli DOC, Merlot ($18), and Eugenio Collavini, Merlot, Riserva de Casa, Collio (DOC)($14). The former needs a year or two in the rack, and the latter is ready to go.