Need a good Merlot for around $50

[SteveTag]

Can anyone suggest a good Merlot for around $50? I have a friend whose birtday is coming up.

Thanks.

[hotwine]

Welcome to the board. For a discussion of Merlots in more or less that price range, see http://www.wines.com/ubb2/Forum15/HTML/000038.html

Personally, I would choose a Merlot-dominant Bordeaux, such as one from St Emilion, rather than a CA Merlot varietal; but that's just my preference.

Since distribution of any particular wine is so spotty across the country, suggest you visit a trusted retailer and explain to him what you're looking for. He should be able to recommend wines in his inventory that fit your criteria.

[SteveTag]

Thank you!