This review is actually about the 2005 Merlot. I've tasted the 2002 Merlot which was great. The 2005 Merlot, however needs a little more breathing time to fully appreciate its qualities. Prior to opening the bottle, make sure you cool it down to at least 65-68 degrees. Once it is cooled, open it and let it breathe for at least 30 min. It's amazing how much more it's flavors and qualities come out of the dark after this process! I give it 3 stars because of the extra effort needed to bring out its flavor. Otherwise, it is a very nice Merlot. Enjoy!

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I am drinking this Pinot while writing this note. It has a rather bland taste - not full-bodied at all in my opinion. However, it is relatively smooth for a $8 wine. But, it tastes almost like it's watered down. Very liquidy - not thick. It doesen't have a good nose either. It's not a really bad wine; I've had worse wines at higher prices. I'm on the fence about buying it again- the price is really cheap - it definitely tastes better than it's price. But I'd rather spend $15 more for a better Pinot, like a Twelve Clones Santa Lucia Highlands Morgan for example. Unfortunately, it isn't available here, but you can get it at BevMo.

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A customer of mine gave me a bottle of this fine shiraz. I was skeptical when I noticed a twist-off cap instead of a cork. However, don't let that fool you. This is a very good Shiraz. It is very smooth and, at first, i found it too sweet....but, after letting it breathe, it was just perfect. It definitely is in the category of wines that wakes up your inner cheek with a richness of almost effervescent flavor. Drink it at 68 degrees. This is totally worth the $11 it costs, trust me. Just wish it had a cork!

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I brought this wine to a friend's for dinner. We were having a nice London Broil and this wine was a perfect pairing. It is smooth, yet has an explosive bouquet. It goes down quite easily... just a yummy wine for such a low price. Try it!

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The Franciscan is a solid Cabernet. It isn't a cheap wine, but it always tastes good. A full-bodied, dense wine - it will always please. This is a must-have for your wine cellar.

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