I don't like Merlot??

In my third review of Eastpoint Cellars wines, I give you Merlot. Now, I have had an unconscious aversion to Merlot for awhile now. I really can't explain it. For whatever reason, I seem to have had in my head that I just don't like it very much. I'm not big on sweet wines and perhaps this has played a role, although Merlot, in general, isn't exactly a super sweet wine.

Having received four bottles of Eastpoint Cellars varietals as a gift, making a decision between buying a CabSav or a Merlot never entered the internal discussion. And I'm glad it didn't, because lo and behold, I do like Merlot, Sam-I-Am.

At least, this one...

Upon opening, oak and cherries reign supreme. And with the first sip, a tantalizing tannin tantrum ensued. I found the taste full of rich cherry. A slight vanilla entered the scene for a brief while before the red fruit beat it back. The finish was full of dryness and it dissipated quickly. I was ready for the next mouthful, instantly.

The tannins played with my palate. Boom. Then, hide and seek. It was playful and enjoyable. It caused me to give chase. And I did.

Of the three Eastpoint wines I've tried so far (and CabSav is the last one standing), this one has been both the best, and a bottle I would buy outright. Perfect with almost anything, it has enough cahones to stand up to rich dishes, but gentle enough with lighter fare. How's that for versatility?

A dark purple, smooth and medium bodied, this Merlot was a hit. I have to eradicate that Merlot aversion from my cerebral cortex lest I miss out on other potential winners. I guess I need to check my Cabernet Privilege for a bit and branch out...

I'm giving Eastpoint Cellars Merlot three full stars out of five. I'd give it three and a half, but I cannot figure out how to cut a star in half! 😛

Stay tuned for more wine reviews as I have a nasty backlog to work through. While I'm on break from sports betting (the NBA is on it's AllStar break), I'll be pounding out these reviews in earnest to clear things out.

Cheers, and happy wining!