Highest rated / best selling Merlot's & Chard's from California..

[vyper]

I just joined the forun and wanted to say hello to everyone...I just started "getting into" wines...Sounds crazy but I just bought the book "Wine for Dummies" since I've only tried a couple of different wines by the glass at my local restaurants...I guess I prefer wines...red or white...that are a little sweet plus not too strong...Does that make sense ?? Anyway...I was wondering if you could give me some good suggestions for some of the better rated/best selling Merlot's and Chards from California...maybe in the $15-$30 price range if possible...Thanks..

[Innkeeper]

Hi Vyper and welcome to the Wine Board. Look for the Wines from Sutter Home (under $10). They are slightly sweet and a good brand to cut your teeth on.

[wineguruchgo]

Hello Vyper,

Finding a "sweeter" red is going to be difficult. What we can do for you is lead you into reds that aren't really dry. Many reds have a higher tannin content which feel like your tongue is like sandpaper.

I would look under the "Deals" thread on the first page of this forum. People are always posting "gems" there that won't break the bank.

Shiraz from Australia, which are pretty fruity, will probably suit you as well as Syrah from the Edna Valley in California. For the hot summer months I'm particulary impartial to Pinot Noir and Beaujolais that I pop in the fridge for 1/2 hour before consumming.

For whites I would try Viognier, Riesling from Alsace or Vouvray (Chenin Blanc). These, I'm hoping, will be to your liking.

Please feel free to come back often and ask as many questions as you wish. This is a complicated field and no questions are foolish. Wine for Dummies is a great book. We recommend it all the time!