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Today's Wine Review

2023 Decoy Merlot "California"

Winery: Decoy

Vintage: 2023

Wine Name/Vineyard: "California"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: 85% Merlot & 15% Cabernet Sauvignon

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: California

State or country: CA

Price: $16

Cases produced: unknown

KWG Score: 90 (based on 1 review)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (90)

Review date: August 27, 2026

Wine Review: This ruby colored Merlot from Decoy is a very good value. It opens with a plum and pencil lead bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with integrated medium plus acidity. The mouthfeel is balanced, round, soft, and juicy. The flavor profile is a blackberry and tobacco blend with notes of graphite and black plum. I also detected hints of oak and black olive. The finish is dry, and its flavors, acidity and dusty tannins are nicely extended. I would pair this Merlot with grilled steak tips. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: This Merlot shows vibrant aromas of fresh black cherry, ripe boysenberry, leather, black olive, peppercorn, and sweet baking spices. On the palate, opulent fruit and silky tannins create balance, with bright red fruit and toasty oak carrying through to a long, cherry-spice finish.

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