1 Merlot, 2 opinions- Harding Estates 2006 Merlot

In my last post (where I discussed how a decision to start exercising with a trainer had put a serious dent in my wine consumption), I mentioned that I had picked up a bottle of red wine that I was very excited to try. The wine I was referring too was a Harding Estates 2006 Merlot. According to our old friend Wilfred Wong (wine rating guy), this wine was a 90 pointer. As he and I don’t always agree, I thought I’d see how our opinions would compare on this selection.

Back to the wine.

So one of my closest friends from Toronto was visiting this past weekend. He enjoys a nice glass of red (he tends to focus primarily on Italian offerings), and so I thought he would be the perfect person with which to crack open the Harding. As we sat on my couch, reminiscing about our University days (or College as is often referred to here in the US), we let the wine breath. After about 20 minutes, I poured two hefty glasses. As I hadn’t had any wine in a couple months, I got giddy with anticipation- and also extraordinarily thirsty. I took my first sip; nothing. No excitement, no 90 point flavor explosion, no aftertaste that I wanted to discuss after …nothing. I took another sip; nothing. The wine wasn’t bad, it just didn’t do anything for me.

My buddy took his first sip. You would think he had just discovered that the world was round (or flat if you’re Thomas Friedman). His first look was that of shock and surprise, with a little amazement thrown in. He loved it; absolutely loved it. He downed that glass of wine like no ones business, demanded another, and another, and another. Luckily for him, I had no problem giving up my portion.

As we discussed the wine afterwards, I found myself amazed at how different his reaction was from mine. It reminded me that wine really is about personal taste. It’s a great lesson to remember when people like me suggest what you should think and drink… :)

Recommendation: Me- Consider buying it. Friend- Definitely buy it

Comments

[Wilfred Wong]

Very interesting to say the least, wine is a funny and sometimes perplexing subject, I could fine myself in endless confusion (or insanity.
Cheers,
Wilfred

[Dorian- Budget Vino]

Wilfred,

I'm honored that you commented on my posting. We may not always agree, but your opinions definitely provide me with guidance when buying wine at BevMo. I look forward to continuing to compare my thoughts with yours!!

Thanks again,
Dorian