1999 Swanson merlot: Decanted two hours. Dark ruby color with dark cherry, mocha/chocolate and coffee notes. 90 at least.
1996 Estancia meritage: Hard to believe I purchased this for under $20. Also decanted, likely for more than three hours. Lighter ruby than the merlot with sturdy legs though. Since this was our third wine and not consumed until my neighbor and I made sure the Phelps and Swanson were dead soldiers, all I can tell you is it was really, really good. Bright flavor profile that gave way to a long aftertaste.
The wines matched perfectly with the bruschetta, cantaloupe wrapped with priscutto and the parmesan reggiano, manchego, gruyere and several other cheeses we had.
Up yours Isidore.
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Funny how finishing the equivalent of a whole bottle of wine by yourself so markedly improves the bottle you open immediately afterwards! ![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
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