Red Truck Central Coast Merlot

Red Truck is a relatively young wine brand, but one I seem to see everywhere I go.  Perhaps it just stands out on the shelf with the big red truck on the label and I notice it more than other brands.  I have to give them credit for creating a memorable brand identity that breaks through the clutter.

The brand was first introduced in 2002 as a single red wine blend, but has since expanded into a line of different wines.  And although the brand is young, winemaker Charlie Tsegeletos has been in the wine business since 1979 and has produced wines for Pendelton Winery, Hacienda Wine Cellars, D’Agostini Winery, Glen Ellen Winery, Cline Cellars and Jacuzzi Winery to name a few.

I’ve had a couple different Red Truck wines over the past few years and have never had a bad experience.  And this Merlot continues that trend.

This is a tasty Merlot, especially for the price.  The nose is somewhat predictable, but still interesting.  It’s a little smoky, with vanilla, raspberry and plum aromas.  The palate is big and juicy.  This is definitely a wine for fans of fruit-forward wine.  Abundant ripe plum and cherry flavors give this wine a fresh and approachable quality and smooth tannins give it a full feel.  The finish is medium in length and enjoyable as well.

I found this wine for an outstanding price of $7.69.  Now that’s a bargain for a wine that’s this tasty.

Wine: Red Truck
Variety: Merlot
Vintage: 2006
Alcohol: 13.5%
Rating: 86
Price: $7.69

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