2015 Blackstone Winemaker's Select California Merlot ($5)

The theme of Behind the Cork ™ - Wine of the Week is to feature affordable and attainable wines that are enjoyable to drink.  This Merlot fits that description. This Merlot is blended with 14% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Malbec. But it's the 79% Merlot that shines through. Nice black cherry, plum fruit flavors along with chocolate and vanilla from its oak aging.