good merlot and appetizers

[wondersofwine]

A number of people on the board, including me, like Bogle Merlot which is an inexpensive but fruity wine. Innkeeper likes the Merlots from the Collio region of Italy, but I have yet to find those in my area. I liked Falesco's Merlot from the Umbrian region of Italy. It costs slightly more than the Bogle as I recall but is under $20 a bottle. If you want to go for a foreign wine you might look for that one. Also, check out recommendations on the past postings.
As for appetizers, you will probably get some additional suggestions but mild cheese straws might match. Or there is a "Sunset" Appetizers or Hors d'Oeuvres cookbook recipe for eggplant spread or relish that I have adapted. It goes nicely on party rye bread or Triscuits. It's really quite tasty and maybe not something someone else would be bringing. Poke holes in the eggplant and bake it until cooked and soft. Cut into it and scoop out and discard a good part of the seeds. Scoop the rest of the interior into a mixing bowl and mash a bit. Add some Worcestershire sauce, finely minced green onions, pine nuts, and tomato paste or red wine vinegar. (I use the red wine vinegar and Worcestershire sauce rather than the tomato paste). Capers are an optional addition (as are the pine nuts). Mix together until of a spreading consistency. Refrigerate until ready to use.