Saturday, January 25, 2025

Tasting Noble Vines 181 Merlot

 


Name:
Noble Vines 181 

Variety: Merlot 

Region: Lodi, California

Country: USA

Year: 2021

Price: $12

Wine Enthusiast review:  An overall balanced, quaffable Merlot, this expression out of Lodi offers notes of blackberry, black cherry, bramble, dusty forest floor, fresh and dried violets, licorice and leather. - S.B. (87 points)

Wine Folly:  pp 131-132 Merlot from North Coast, CA.  I certainly could taste sweet black cherry fruit, and notes of baking chocolate.  I also perceived some bitterness of the fine grain tannins, especially shortly after uncorking.

My Review:  Initially, after decanting only a few minutes, I found this Merlot tasty, but slightly bitter.  However, once decanted approximately 30 minutes I could much better enjoy the dark fruit and slight hint of chocolates.  I was able to enjoy another glass or two on the following evening, end the wine tasted even more splendid!  Much smoother and richer after aerating that extended time.

Food Pairing:  The first evening I drank this accompanying fish tacos... not the best pairing I realize, but that's what the family was having for dinner.  Both tasted fine on their own but did not necessarily compliment.  However, the second night this Merlot was paired with a steak and chicken on rice dish, and the pairing worked exceptionally!  Would highly recommend repeating.


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