About the product
Clos du Bois California Merlot delivers smooth, approachable wine with rich dark fruit flavors and subtle oak undertones. This classic Merlot showcases ripe plum, cherry, and blackberry notes with a velvety texture that makes it perfect for everyday enjoyment or special occasions. Well-balanced and food-friendly, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta dishes, and hearty fare. A reliable choice for Merlot lovers seeking quality California wine at an excellent value.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Taste Notes
This Merlot is famous for its "lush" and "velvety" texture, making it a very easy-drinking red.
- Appearance: Deep ruby red with shimmering purple edges.
- Aroma: Intense bursts of black cherry, ripe plum, and violet, with distinct secondary notes of mocha, toasted oak, and brown spices.
- Palate: Medium-bodied and silky. It features concentrated flavors of black fruit (blackberry/cherry) and a touch of baking chocolate. Unlike a heavy Cabernet, the tannins here are very soft and supple.
- Finish: Smooth and lingering, with a final hint of vanilla and sweet tobacco.
Food Pairings
Because of its soft tannins and fruit-forward nature, this Merlot is a fantastic "bridge" wine for many different cuisines:
- Poultry: Roasted chicken with herbs (oregano/thyme) or Thanksgiving turkey.
- Pork: Grilled pork tenderloin or a rich pork stew.
- Pasta: Hearty lasagna, mushroom risotto, or pasta with a red meat sauce.
- Casual Favorites: It is a stellar companion for a classic cheeseburger or a plate of meatballs.
- Cheese: Pairs beautifully with soft, creamy cheeses like Camembert or semi-hard options like Havarti.
About the brand
Founded in 1974 by Frank Woods, Clos du Bois was born from a desire to marry French winemaking elegance with the vibrant fruit of California. The name itself is a bilingual pun: Clos is French for a walled vineyard, and Bois is French for "woods," a nod to the founder’s last name.
Based in Geyserville (Sonoma County), they were pioneers in identifying the potential of the Alexander Valley. Today, they are one of the most recognized premium wine brands in the U.S., known for consistent quality and a "polished" style that avoids the harshness found in some budget reds.
