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2012 Freemark Abbey Merlot

2012 Freemark Abbey Merlot

2012 Freemark Abbey MerlotI’ve been slacking a bit on reviewing some Merlots and thought this bottle from Freemark Abbey would be a nice way to get going again.  I love their Cabernet Sauvignons, and really want to try some of the straight Cab Francs they’re putting out.  But I found the Merlot at Costco.  Price was $28.99 which is pretty good since I’ve seen this one closer to $35 before ($35 is full retail.  Wine.com has it for $27).

It might seem like a lot to throw down for a Merlot, especially considering their Cabs are just a bit more, but I really enjoyed this one.  2012 is obviously the year you want from Napa.  This is a combination of mountain fruit and fruit from the Napa floor.  It’s 86% Merlot along with some other Bordeaux varietals so that helps balance the wine.

It’s a juicy one, fruit forward; definitely a crowd pleaser for red wine fans, who might not peg this for a Merlot; reminds me of a right bank Bordeaux to a degree.  Oak element is mild so the fruit really comes through.  Dark fruit, blueberry, cherry, blackberry flavors.  Finishes smooth and clean, a touch dry and sticky.

Overall, an enjoyable wine.  I wish we could get in at a slightly lower price point, but that aside, I’d recommend for most red wine fans, even those non-Merlot drinkers.

CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 90 Points

Costco item number: 62829

Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA (Kennesaw)