Merlot is clearly capable of producing world-class wine. But finding a good-value, under-$10 Merlot is a whole different matter. When it's good, Merlot combines plush fruit with a deliciously sensual smoothness and a subtle herbaceous complexity. Too many Merlot bottlings, however, offer none of the wine's appealing characteristics. The good news is that, amidst so many mediocre efforts, great wines continue to be made. For winelovers captivated by this grape's seductive depth and smoothness, we recommend the 2006 Cono Sur Merlot from South America. This is all the reason you need to drink Merlot!

The 2006 Cono Sur Merlot is made from grapes grown in the Valle Central of Chile. The fertile alluvial soils of the winegrowing area, combined with the temperate influence of the cool Pacific breezes and the ready source of irrigation water from the Andes Mountains, allow affordable wines to be made in abundance. But once again, it is easy to find inexpensive Chilean wines; it is increasingly rare to find wines with the affordability as well as the richness, character and class of the Cono Sur Merlot.

The bouquet of the '06 Cono Sur Merlot is remarkably generous and complex; bold ripe blackberry and black cherry fruit dominate on the nose, intermingled with subtle hints of violet/floral perfume, hints of mint, earth, tobacco and cinnamon. The flavors are deep, rich and smooth with the succulent black fruit elements followed by a soft, earthy richness and nuances of herbs and spice that linger pleasantly at the dry finish. Try it with red meats, rich poultry recipes or most anything off the grill. This is one Merlot that will not disappoint you!The Cono Sur Merlot is perfectly ready to drink now, and will maintain its luscious, youthful qualities for another year or two. At the Monthly Sale Price, it's worth picking up a few bottles!