Reviews & Ratings

2009 Sebastiani Merlot "Alexander Valley"

Winery: Sebastiani

Vintage: 2009

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Alexander Valley"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: 79% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon & 4% Petit Verdot

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Alexander Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $24

Cases produced: 1,250

KWG Score: 91.4 (based on 5 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (92)

Review date: September 13, 2012

Wine Review: This very dark garnet colored Merlot from the Alexander Valley is impressive and was well received by the panel. It opens with a fragrant and inviting black cherry bouquet with a hint of black pepper and vanilla oak. On the palate, this wine is medium to full bodied, balanced and smooth. The flavor profile is a tasty gentle blueberry and plum blend with a delicate hint of dried cherry and oak in the background. The finish is dry and its fine tannins are friendly. The panel agreed that this elegant, drink now Merlot that would pair well with Stuarts yummy steak appetizers. Enjoy – KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: Our 2009 has all the signature attributes of Alexander Valley Merlot including black tea, dried herbs, black cherries and wild berries. It is ripe without being over-ripe. The new oak barrels add notes of espresso and mocha to the nose plus sweet vanilla to the palate. The cool temperatures throughout the growing season created a wine that is sleek, restrained and understated. - Mark R. Lyon, Winemaker

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Sebastiani 2009 Alexander Valley Merlot.