2020 Raymond Vineyard Merlot
I found it odd that a Raymond wine was dressed in red velvet. The winemaker claimed this Merlot was smooth as velvet…. but a Raymond? Well, the label got me to buy his wine,
Taste: Its nose is fruity. This redat first taste is heavy in dark chocolate. Later, on, you’ll find black cherry and plums. There is a slight oaky that smooths out velvety. Taste=2
Looks: The label tells the buyer this is an older Napa Valley Vineyard, 1974. It is located east of Santa Rosa by Mt. St. Hellens. It pours into a deep ruby red. In swirling, legs cling to the glass.
The winemaker cut costs with a lighter weight bottle and a composition cork. These are “tells” indicating it does not have a long storage life. Rather, it is a drink-it-now wine served with daily dinners or casual pours. Looks= 2
Cost: Raymond Select Reserve is a good Merlot that is reasonably priced. It definitely is a step-up form lower priced Merlots, quite enjoyable. Cost=2
Action Decision: Here is a nice Merlot for every day use. It is not one for long term cellar storage. And now we know what Raymond looks like in red velvet.
