Today's Wine Review
2021 Serres Ranch Merlot "Buchanan"
Winery: Serres Ranch
Vintage: 2021
Wine Name/Vineyard: "Buchanan"
Wine Category: Merlot
Grape blend: 75% Merlot, 14% Malbec, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon & 2% Petit Verdot
Bottle size: 750 ml
Region: Sonoma Valley
State or country: CA
Price: $95
Cases produced: 97
KWG Score: 92.3 (based on 3 reviews)
Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (93)
Review date: December 3, 2025
Wine Review: This hazy and deep ruby colored Merlot from Serres Ranch opens with a cranberry and red cherry bouquet with hints of pomegranate and red licorice. On the palate, this wine is full bodied with integrated medium plus acidity. The mouthfeel is nicely balanced, super smooth, and seamless. The flavor profile is a black cherry and graphite blend with notes of menthol and blackberry compote. I also detected hints of licorice, milk chocolate, sage, and black pepper. The finish is dry, and its flavors, acidity, and well-managed moderate tannins stick around for quite some time. I would pair this Merlot with braised short ribs. Enjoy - Ken
Winemaker Notes: The 2021 blend varies from its predecessor, adjusted to a blend that would best complement Merlot in the 2021 vintage. Notably, we added 12% Malbec, contributing to the wine's full body and rich texture. This wine will continue to develop over the next 10 years, with its rich, complex berry palate and soft tannins. However, with decanting it can be an excellent wine to serve now, especially alongside a hearty meal and a few great friends. Pair with duck, lamb, beef, or hearty mushroom dishes.
Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Serres Ranch 2021 Buchanan Merlot.
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