Mazza Chautauqua Cellars, Merlot, Long Island, New York State, 2019

As Americans grapple with their misunderstandings of Merlot's virtues and vices from a Biodynamic Long Island vineyard comes a New York State Merlot without a care in the world. Red fruits and savoury herbs announce this bright and herbaceous wine on the nose. Rose hips, pine bough and a bit of ripe raspberry beckon. The palate is light and lively and eschews the dense tannic fruit of riper-styled Merlots. You can drink this wine with a chill and a burger or serve it with a steak. It's an unabashed food wine and easy to enjoy.