June Tastings:

> June Tasting Stats

> Top Ten Merlot

> Value Varietals

> Merlot

> Rioja

> American New Releases

> Imported New Releases

In This Issue:

 

> I'll take Manhattan
David Lynch explores the subtleties or two classic Bourbon cocktails.

 

> Best Value Wines of the Year
Looking for affordable summer wines? Tara Q. Thomas and Taylor Antrim share buying tips and W&S's top picks from a year of tastings.


 

> Building the Bargain Cellar
Patrick Comiskey consults with retailers around the country for recommendations on value-priced, cellar-worthy wines.


 

> The Other Cabernet
Napa Valley is known for for cabernet sauvignon. But some of Napa's most sought-after bottlings rely on its parent, cabernet franc, for their distinctive style. Rod Smith reports on franc's recent renaissance.


 

> Merlot's Second Coming
Simple, soft and forgettable? Not from these vineyards. Taylor Antrim explores some of the most distinctive merlot sites in California and Washington State.


 

> La Rioja Nueva
The "new" Riojas push old-vine tempranillo in a completely different direction from the old classics. Ray Isle investigates the exciting changes in this Spanish wine region.


 

> Coming to Argentina
Two latest developments far beyond Mendoza: Patricio Tapia looks into new vineyards in deepest Patagonia, while Tara Q. Thomas takes a wild ride through the heart of Salta.