Some quick hits on wine I've tried over the Thanksgiving weekend which rated very high:

1) Silver by Mer Soleil Santa Lucia Highlands Unoaked Chardonnay 2005; Incredible juice that impressed even non-Chardonnay drinkers. In a category by itself. Clear in color, a citrus, green apple nose with subtle minerals. Bright, fresh, very tropical-like with a beautifully satisfying aftertaste. Word of mouth is spreading fast on this incredible Chardonnay. Caveat: prices are all over the map but if you look on-line, I've seen it offered at $29.95 a bottle. (That includes tax but not shipping)

2) Provenance Merlot Napa Valley '03; Ever since Miles dogged it in "Sideways", Merlot has taken a serious but completely unnecessary hit with consumers. Well, forget what he said, put down that Pinot Noir and re-discover Merlot. Here's a great place to start too! Nice ruby color right out of the bottle, wonderful herbs/floral nose with a hint of red currents. Upon tasting, fresh and lively with an explosion of raspberries. For around $25.00! Four of us tried it, four of us really liked it too!

If you would like to make any comments/suggestions or ask general questions, you can reach me here: mailto:steve.paulson@coxtv.com