2004 Rodney Strong Vineyards Sonoma County Merlot, California $20
This was one of the best merlots I have tasted in a long time for the price. The nose was filled with jam like fruit, all spice and clove. Black raspberry preserves hit the taste buds in a wave of flavor, followed by subtle waves of white pepper and oak. The finish had all of the great flavors marring together and holding on the tongue for the next sip. This was a great winner!
I tried a new cut of steak, flat iron cut seasoned with salt and pepper on the grill, and talk about a marriage made in heaven. The juicy flavors of the meat along with the pepper and dark fruit notes of the wine complimented each other perfectly. You could also use this wine with stuffed peppers or even meaty fish dishes. The fruit was soft enough to hold lighter meals while the acidity and tannins will hold up to fat and texture of the meat.
The founder of this winery Rodney D. Strong was an acclaimed dancer and teacher of dance in the 1950's. He lived and studied in France and upon his return to the United States had a true love for wine. One of Rod Strong's more famous quotes is "I knew I couldn't be an old dancer, but I could be an old winemaker." So in 1962 he purchased an old vineyard and winery building once known as Monte Carlo winery. Eventually he bought additional vineyards and broke ground on what today is Rodney Strong Vineyards.
Cheers!
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