Sterling Vintner's Collection 2007 Meritage

back to the states with this meritage from sonoma. a blend of 52% cabernet sauvignon, 44% merlot, 3% malbec, 1% petit verdot, this red has a nose of black cherry, rose petals and chocolate. the nose was not very big and it took a while for the wine to open up, so i would suggest decanting this one for an hour or so before drinking. the taste was black raspberry, cherry, spice, with hints of chocolate and floral flavors of rose and violet and very firm tannins. the tannins softened a bit as it opened up in the glass, once again suggesting that the wine needs to be decanted. the best part is the price, selling for about $10 a bottle. this is a fairly dry red that will match up nicely with a veal or beef dinner.