Ever since the movie Sideways, Merlot has had to undeservedly overcome a bad wrap. It already played second fiddle to Cabernet Sauvignon. But Merlot creates some the greatest wines in the world. It is an earlier ripening variety and consequently is perhaps better suited for this County since we are the one of the coolest wine growing regions. Merlot prefers a warmer climate and the fruit for this comes from the warmer, eastern Santa Ynez Valley. The wine is deep in color with blackberry and plum fruit back by toasty oak, cedar, and earthy spice. Though it has extended barrel age, the wine still has a fresh berry, tannic kick in the finish. Serve with roast duck with a red wine reduction sauce or a thick grilled burger. Bottle Price: $55.00 (limited availability)