1997 Blackstone Merlot

[Drew]

1997 Blackstone "Napa" Merlot.

This was the forth wine we popped at the shore...one I've had before but gets better each time. Beautiful dark purple/plum color, that distictive NAPA nose with ample oak and dark fruit in perfect balance. Soft, smooth rich flavors of vanilla accented dark fruit, plum and blackberry flavors that sail along the tongue. IMHO this is a great merlot for $17. This Blackstone matched perfectly with New York Strip steaks, baked spuds and salad laced with raspberry walnut vinegerette.

Drew

[winoweenie]

Drew, Knowing your affinity for the Blackstone, Yesterday my local purveyor of alcohol put the 98 " Napa " on the shelf for the 1st time. Had it for lunch rite then-and-there with some real pretty Bruschetta. I personally like the 98 better than the 97 " Napa". Still the same dollars. winoweenie

[Drew]

Thanks for the heads up on the 98' Napa. While looking in a favorite store the other day for the 97' I spied the 98' but passed it up....will have to go back and get 1.

Drew

[Drew]

Popped my last bottle of the '97 tonight at the beach with friends served with wonderful chocolate/white chocolate chip cookies. Best cookies I've ever had. The '97 has transformed into a smooth as silk, chocolatly merlot with wonderful expresso notes. It is at it's peak...drink up. A wonderful cool, clear night overlooking the Assawoman bay.....

Drew

[Georgie]

and is there a recipe for those cookies?????

[Kcwhippet]

That bay was obviously named by a man.

[wondersofwine]

LOL, KC. I like the Blackstone Napa Merlot but don't particularly care for the Blackstone California Merlot. As with some of the Rancho Zabaco Zinfandels, the few extra bucks for the more specific appellation are worth the difference in price.

[Drew]

I think I can talk my wife's friend Ann into posting the recipe for those great cookies, Ann has been a regular lurker on the board but never posted.

Drew

[Georgie]

Very good, there's a cookbook project in the works.