A little basic help

[cpurvis]

Mag, welcome to the Board. No worries 'bout general questions...that's why the Novice thread is here.

First, to better define your "sweetness" preferences, you can learn much by simply entering that word in the Search function on the main Wine Board page. In particular, see thess recent discussions:
http://www.wines.com/ubb2/Forum37/HTML/000878.html

http://www.wines.com/ubb2/Forum37/HTML/000873.html

Second, merlot is typically dry, but you may be fooled by the fruitiness of certain ones you've tried. Read the tasting notes that others have entered under the varietal threads on the Board.

Third, you will likely find the sweetness level descriptions on the following site helpful as well, because specific varietals & countries of origin are noted:
http://www.wineontheweb.com/consumer_advice/thesugarsand/thesugarsand.html

Finally, you will easily find plenty of decent wines that match your tastes in the $10 range. Start by trying Marietta California Old Vine Red Lot Number 26. The wine is a full-bodied, fruity, smooth, Rhone-style blend of several varietals. Great stuff at $10. I'm sure that others here will make specific recs as well.

Cheers! cp



[This message has been edited by cpurvis (edited 03-23-2001).]