Narsai David: Charles Krug Merlot & Sequana Pinot Noir

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— Charles Krug's 2008 Napa Valley Merlot exudes deep red color, with rich, lush, ripe, berry aromas that lead to a full richness on the palette. That's according to KCBS Food and Wine Editor Narsai David, who tasted some delicious wines this week.

"There's plenty of tannic backbone. This is not one of those wimpy substitutes for cabernet," David said.

David called it a marvelous full-body and fair priced example of what a Napa Valley merlot should be.

KCBS Food and Wine Editor Reports:

Then he moved down to the Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey County where he tried a 2008 Sequana-Sarmento Vineyard pinot noir. This time he describes the aromas of being reminiscent of cherry and plum.

There's lots of upfront fruit on the palate, but with plenty of structure and balance. The fruit's ripeness carries through and lingers," he said.

David suggested grilled king salmon as a food pairing because it's soft enough, but lush enough to be served with prime rib.

At $30 a bottle, he called it another great value.

Narsai David is the KCBS Food and Wine Editor. He has been a successful restaurateur, chef, TV host, and columnist in the Bay Area spanning four decades. You can hear him Saturdays at 10:53am, 12:53pm and 4:53pm, and at 2:53am Sunday on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM.

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