2018 Monte Serena Winemaker's Selection Merlot

$17.99 $23.99

Save 25% Save $6.00

Enjoy this easy-drinking Merlot, not from France or Italy, but hailing from a unique winemaking region of California. 2018 Monte Serena Merlot opens with luscious notes of black cherries and plums balanced by hints of chocolate and baking spices. This Merlot is dry yet intensely fruity with a medium-to-full body. Soft but present tannins offer a smooth, lingering finish on the palate. Part of California’s Central Coast, Monterey has established itself as one of the state’s premium wine-growing regions, producing high-quality wines on par with those from Napa or Sonoma. Warm sunlight is tempered by cooling air from Monterey Bay, allowing for a longer growing season. Slowly maturing grapes offer concentrated flavors, which Monte Serena winemakers skillfully harnessed to present a wine that captures the varietal beautifully. This Merlot is quite versatile, pairing well with charcuterie, roast lamb or pork, and sautéed vegetables.

Tasting Notes

Chocolate, Black Cherry, and Red Plum

ABV

13.5 %

Overall rating: 4.25 / 5 from 4 reviews.

AI Generated Review Summary

Summary topics

Review topics: ["flavor","buy","merlot"].

Review highlights

Reviews

Perfectly decent Merlot table wine

"Bought a bunch of merlots from Wine Insiders - the Monte Serena 2018 was quite good. I was worried that it's age, from 2018, might be a problem but this was better than just fine. We had it with a meal of chicken and roasted vegetables. Definitely would buy again."

— Prof J. (4/5)

Just an okay Merlot

"I had high hopes for this Merlot. On the pour, swirl, and sniff, there were clear notes of cherry and other berries. However, for me, it lacked body and smoothness. It was thin and very acidic on the tongue and especially on the finish. I prefer Merlots that are jammy, rich, smooth, but not sweet. If you like a thin (light) favor profile with high acidity, this one is for you. I will not purchase again."

— Been T. (3/5)