This bargain Merlot has the usual fruity nose, a deep berry hue and average legs. Nothing too surprising upon the first sniff. The first sip revealed a decent ripe-blueberry flavor as well as a very subtle anise note. The second sip tasted of hibiscus, apple juice and spruce trees. It has a nice smooth finish, not too short, not too long. The overall flavor forerunner was the blueberry though. This is a nice medium-bodied wine for $5. It's a bit fruity for my taste, but I would buy it again. I think it would be perfect with tri-tip and caramalized onions.
I give this Merlot 4 out of 5 stars.