Newbie to Merlot

[wondersofwine]

I can't answer your question on blended wines--I'm still experimenting with them myself--mostly red wine blends from Australia. Mostly I drink straight varietals. As for "fruity" and flavorful red wines, you might try a 1998 or 1999 Beaujolais wine from a named cru such as Fleurie, Julienas, Morgon, or Moulin a Vent. The cru name will appear on the label but the Beaujolais appellation will not. Ask a wine dealer for suggestions. Also, you might see if your local wine merchant carries Sancerre wines (from the Loire region of France). These tend to have a lot of fruit presence in whites, rose' or red (rouge). Let us know if you find other wines to your liking and that will give us an idea of your preference in wines.