good merlot and appetizers

[mary wawrin]

I'm trying to get some input from the pros on what would be a good merlot to take to my monthly wine tasting. I'm not too fond of merlot, so any input would be appreciated. Also, what would be a good appetizer to take?? Thanks for your help!!!

[wondersofwine]

A number of people on the board, including me, like Bogle Merlot which is an inexpensive but fruity wine. Innkeeper likes the Merlots from the Collio region of Italy, but I have yet to find those in my area. I liked Falesco's Merlot from the Umbrian region of Italy. It costs slightly more than the Bogle as I recall but is under $20 a bottle. If you want to go for a foreign wine you might look for that one. Also, check out recommendations on the past postings.
As for appetizers, you will probably get some additional suggestions but mild cheese straws might match. Or there is a "Sunset" Appetizers or Hors d'Oeuvres cookbook recipe for eggplant spread or relish that I have adapted. It goes nicely on party rye bread or Triscuits. It's really quite tasty and maybe not something someone else would be bringing. Poke holes in the eggplant and bake it until cooked and soft. Cut into it and scoop out and discard a good part of the seeds. Scoop the rest of the interior into a mixing bowl and mash a bit. Add some Worcestershire sauce, finely minced green onions, pine nuts, and tomato paste or red wine vinegar. (I use the red wine vinegar and Worcestershire sauce rather than the tomato paste). Capers are an optional addition (as are the pine nuts). Mix together until of a spreading consistency. Refrigerate until ready to use.

[Thomas]

Wondersofwine, I blend roasted red peppers into my eggplant spread. Give it a try; you too marywawrin.

[Innkeeper]

If I had to pick up an American Merlot other than the thrifty Bogle and Blackstones, I'd probably go with one from your homestate before a more expensive one from California. Preston and Kiona and two brands to look for.

[zenda2]

A lot of good advice so far. A couple more local merlots for you to consider. My favorite would be L'Ecole No. 41.
http://www.lecole.com/

Canoe Ridge
http://www.canoeridgevineyard.com/

And Sagelands, at a lower price point.
http://www.sagelandsvineyard.com/

[This message has been edited by zenda2 (edited 01-22-2003).]

[Thomas]

...and Powers Merlot, WA. State

[hotwine]

Kudos to Wow for spelling out horsey-doovers. I always stumble all over that one when trying to type it.

[hhhanson]

Another good WA Merlot is the 2000 Columbia Valley Merlot from Bernard Griffin. It's supposed to retail for around $17, but I've picked it up at COSTCO for $10.51

[MontereyRick]

The 99 vintages of both Luna and Chateau Souverain were both great Merlots in my opinion. They'll be a little difficult to find, but I think the 2000's are out.