Well, its been almost four years since the last post on this
blog. Its not that there hasn’t been any wine drinking, or really good eating
over the last few years far from it. Just haven’t been sharing it. A few weeks
back, Pris and I decided to start working through our wine reserves which were
getting somewhat advanced in age without the benefit of a wine fridge or cellar
to properly store them. As a result, we
are getting back in the swing of things with the drinking, and hopefully the
writing.
The first wine back up on the block is a 2011 Merlot from
the R. Collection by Raymond Vineyards in northern California. Like most
merlots, the R. Collection was loaded with tangy rich fruit in the nose.
However, due to its age this was highly restrained and it took some time for
the wine to open up. Once it did, the merlot ended up being one of the most
mellow and drinkable wines we’ve had in a while. Rich plum and cherry played
across the palate up front. This was followed by a hint of earthy spice at the
end that as the wine slid down the back of the palate.
We paired the merlot with a fine Easter Sunday meal of
grass-fed porterhouse, sautéed scallops, roasted asparagus, and roasted Yukon gold
potatoes. The asparagus and potatoes were topped with grated manchego cheese. The
steak came from Eagle Catcher farms and the scallops from The Shrimp Outlet.
Both ventures have booths at the Grow & Growers market Saturday morning at
Fireman’s Park in McAllen. 
The merlot was a great choice to pair with this surf &
turf. The age ripened smoothness allowed it to be light enough to play well
with the scallops and still compliment the porterhouse. The rich fruit was a
great counterpoint to the sharpness of the manchego.
As this wine was a gift I don’t have the usual information
on where to purchase it locally or price. The website lists the R. Collection
as an affordable everyday wine. If you happen to find it or get one as a gift,
let it age. You won’t be disappointed in this incredibly versatile and
drinkable Merlot.
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