Red Newt Cellars, Merlot 2011, Finger Lakes, New York

Tasting Note: In the New York Finger Lakes even merlot aspires to be cabernet franc.

On the nose alone one might initially guess this wine was a cabernet franc because of the red fruit aromas, but this ruby-colored wine is a merlot with a nose of red fruit including red plum, red currant and raspberry with hints of ginger and clove baking spice on the end.

On the palate the merlot is light but medium in body and acidity with the tannic character riding slightly on top of the blended tapestry of red fruit ending with a somewhat earthy finish.

An enjoyable, lighter-styled merlot with some mid-to-end-palate complexity.

Bottle Note: This merlot offers up aromas of dark cherry and smoke. Following its fruit driven nose is a delicate palate filled with forward fruit. Rich flavors of black cherry jam, cassis and cocoa nuances fill out a palate that is rich, smooth and elegant. Supple tannins filled the mid-palate and gently linger in a finish that is complex and satisfying. This wine is not overstated and is great with food. Enjoy it with charcoal grilled steak of seared pork tenderloin medallions in a molasses-balsamic glaze on a bed of wilted collard greens. Red Newt Cellars Winery & Bistro is committed to producing exceptional vinifera wines and creating innovation regional cuisine that express the personality and sense of place of Finger Lakes vineyards and communities. RS 0.3%, TA 5.6 g/l, pH 3.60.