Norm's Tasting Notes

Norm's Tasting Notes

By: Norm Bentley

North Georgia Wine Advisor

normwine@bellsouth.net

2010 Waterstone Napa Valley Merlot

#nb-37-13

Decent red wines from Napa, in the under twenty dollar range, are hard to come by, but the 2010 Waterstone Merlot is an exception. This is a firm and supple Merlot with a lot of Cabernet character, and a modest price range.  The grapes are 100% Merlot and come from both Carneros, and the Chiles Valley., which represent both the north and south of Napa.  The wine was aged in oak for 24 months, and is not a large run, with only 1232 cases being produced.

The nose opens up with a heavy punch to the senses full of blackberry and cherry aromas, which immediately announce that this is a wine of substance.  The flavors abound with cherry, blackberry and plum, leading into a lingering finish, highlighted by a touch of vanilla, and a hint of oak.  The wine finishes long and clean, suggesting another sip.  The alcohol content is a healthy, but mild 15.1%.

The Waterstone Merlot is an excellent choice for grilled meats, such as steaks and chops. If you really enjoy red wine, you may want to just sip this one, and maybe add a piece of aged sharp cheese.  Norm's score is 90.

Score: 90

Price: $16 - $19

Norm

Norm’s Tasting Notes can also be accessed at his blog: http://normwine.blogspot.com/

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