Benziger Merlot 2003

The red wines from 2003 in northern California are the most "user friendly" since the voluptuous 1997's. They are softly textured, rich in flavor, and moderate in tannins, meaning they are enjoyable virtually upon release. Like this Merlot, which is supple and full-bodied, with generous flavors (cocoa, green olive, toast, cherry, pepper), light oakiness, and along finish. For drinking over the next 2-3 years. Enjoy with braised rabbit with onions, cheese steak, beef tortillas, shish kebabs (leg of lamb with green and red peppers, onions, tomato and potato).