Pietra Santa Cienega Valley Merlot 2003

Merlot seems so out of fashion, yet here's the real deal, not to miss.  Pietra Santa translates to "sacred stone", which refers to the fact that the estate vineyard is dissected by the San Andreas fault, which results in a stony soil.

The Cienega Valley is 25 miles east/northeast of Monterey, just south and east of Gilroy (home of the Garlic Festival, which just occurred this year). The 455 acres in the Hollister area were first developed by Frenchman Theophile Vache in the 1850s, but now are owned by the Blackburn family.

In addition to wine production, Pietra Santa also has a sizeable artisanal olive oil business.  Siena, Italy native Alessio Carli has been in charge of winemaking at Pietra Santa for 15 years.

Tasting Notes: Color: Deep ruby, semi-opaque.  Aromas: Concentrated red and black fuit, cassia/spice and forest floor.  Mouthfeel: Medium-to-full-bodied with very good structure and substantial rocky tannins.  Tart concentrated dark fruit flavors keep going in a decidedly macho finish for a Merlot.

Closure: Real cork.  Excellent value ($15).  Alcohol: 15.4%.

Food pairing: Hearty grilled fish and herbs, or alternatively, anything made with dark chocolate.