2016 Matanzas Creek Winery Alexander Valley Merlot

It’s hard to think about in this post-Sideways world, but Matanzas Creek was actually founded and had its reputation built by Merlot. Now granted, that was in 1977 by none other than Mary Edwards, so the world does keep changing. Here, in Alexander Valley, the valley floor fruit is mixed with mountain fruit, resulting in a deeply layered complexity to the wine which displays gorgeous aromas of raspberry, dark cherry, touches of tobacco and a savory notes. The wine is structured, and as the saying goes in the industry – it’s a steakhouse Merlot. Meaning it’s got a level of power and depth that pairs well with the 36 oz. blue ribeye, and any Cabernet brethren you’d wish to stack it up against.