Wine question

[CJ]

Hi...Don't know if I am in the right place or not...I wanted to purchase some wine for a friend who just got a big promotion. He works for a large supermarket chain and has a vast knowledge of wines and has probably tried most. He is even putting a wine cellar in his new home. He is very wine savy and I am not. What would be a good choice?, something special, I know he likes Merlots.
Thanks for your help!!!!!

[Innkeeper]

Hi CJ, and welcome to the Wine Board. Here's one I'll bet he's never had, and will also bet he will like: 1998 Bortoluzzi, Collio, Merlot. If you can't find that particular one, almost any other Collio Merlot you can find in the $18 - $25 range should fill the bill. Do not substitute any other Italian Merlot. If you can't find a Collio Merlot get a 1998 Pomerol or St Emilion. Ask your retailer to recommend one in your price range. You should be able to get a decent one in the $25 - $35 range. These two Bordeaux regions make their blends with mostly merlot by volume.