Josh Cellars Merlot

Josh Cellars Merlot is a California-appellation red at 13.5% ABV, a moderate strength for the style. Expect the ripe, plush profile that warm-climate California Merlot usually delivers: blackberry and raspberry fruit leading, with mocha and chocolate notes underneath, and a medium to full body. Tannins in Merlot from warmer growing areas tend to run soft and rounded, so this is a red that goes down easily even with people who find structured Cabernet a bit grippy. Acidity is typically moderate, enough to keep the fruit from feeling heavy, and a touch of oak-derived vanilla is common in this style, rounding the finish into something smooth and gently lingering. The softness of the tannin and the dark-fruit-and-chocolate character make this a natural partner for richer, savory dishes. Braised beef, short ribs, and roasted duck are the classic matches, since the fruit stands up to the fat and the soft tannins don't fight the meat. It also works with mushroom dishes, grilled sausages, burgers, meatloaf, and baked pasta with a tomato-meat sauce. Medium-aged cheeses such as cheddar or gouda suit it well, while very delicate fish or sharply spicy food will tend to overwhelm a wine of this weight. Serve it at roughly 60 to 65°F (15 to 18°C), which means a short stay in the refrigerator, about 15 to 20 minutes, if the bottle has been sitting at warm room temperature. Serving it too warm exaggerates the alcohol and flattens the fruit. Decanting is not required for a wine like this, though pouring it into a decanter or simply letting the glass sit for ten minutes will soften any initial tightness. A standard red wine glass with a medium-to-large bowl gives the fruit room to open up and directs the aromas toward the nose. This is a drink-now bottle. Keep it on its side in a cool, dark spot away from heat, and once opened, re-cork it and finish it within a few days for the best flavor.