Big Cherry Fruit Shines in Water's Crest Merlot

Merlot is the most widely planted red grape on Long Island. In fact, it's debated to be the defining grape of the region. Heck, the grape has its own alliance named after it. But though it's celebrated across Long Island, the wines the grape yields vary from winery to winery, ranging from dark, spicy and plummy to bright and cherry-driven. This one might be right in the middle.

The wine: 2007 Merlot, a crystal-clear, ruby-colord wine that spends two years in oak before being bottled.

Aromas (Nose): Deep fruit scents of plum, raspberry and cherry, verging on cherry candy, mingle with big cedar aromas, wood smoke and a sly hint of white pepper.

Taste (Palate): Clean flavors of fresh cherry, strawberry, and jammy plum fruit are balanced by vanilla and a touch of smoke the finish. Tannins are firm and the finish quick, suggesting the wine is still a bit tight and will soften with a bit more age. However, the clean fruit makes it an enjoyable wine to open today. Just let it breathe.

Food pairing: This  from Tree Dilworth would pair wonderfully.

The verdict: Big fruit and balanced oak make this worth opening, but this is definitely a cellar-worthy addition. The complexity will only develop over time.

Price: $30 at the winery.

Interested in submitting samples for review? E-mail henry@patch.com.