2001 Bogle Merlot, California

[Innkeeper]

As ww suggests on the tread currently below on Mt Veeder, most New World Merlot deserves the rap that "Sideways" deldt it. We shy away from just about all Merlot under $20 because they usually come out "plums and oak." Can't afford to buy too many more expensive ones, so our Merlot intake in very low.

We currently have three in the house. Two are East Bank Bordeaux and one is a 2001 Pahlmeyer Napa Valley Merlot that was a gift. It is not that we are against the poor grape, it is just that proper growing conditions for it are scarce, and then it has to be treated properly by the vinter. Grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel, and even in my opinion, Pinot Noir are more forgiving.