Drink (and think) like a somm
Michael Shaps
Meritage
Virginia
Monticello AVA
Cabernet Franc
50%
Merlot
50%
Cherry,
Watermelon,
Sage,
Anise.
New French Oak
75%
Concrete
25%
Low
Med -
Medium
Med +
High
ABOUT
Michael Shaps 2021 Meritage
PAIRINGS
IN A PINCH
DEEPER DIVE
STANDOUT FEATURES
STEER CLEAR
PAIRING SCALE
Light Dishes
Salads
Raw Bar
Med – Dishes
Fatty Fish
Roast Chicken
Med. Dishes
Lean Meats
Rich Poultry
Med + Dishes
Burgers
Fatty Meats
Full Dishes
Stews
Rich Sauces
CHEESE OPTIONS
RECIPE IDEAS
SERVICE
WHICH GLASSES?
Large Bordeaux or All-purpose glasses would be best.
BORDEAUX
BURGUNDY
FLUTE
COUPE
ALL-PURPOSE
WHITE
DESSERT
SHOULD I DECANT THIS?
WHY “Yes”?
There’s a lot to unpack in this wine, and most of it will be missed if it doesn’t have at least a little time to breathe.
HOW LONG?
Generally you would want to decant a younger wine for longer to help it open up and be cautious of exposing older wines to oxygen for too long. There are always exceptions of course, but this is a pretty good rule to follow.
Minutes to decant this bottle:
Year opened
SERVING TEMP
The correct serving temperature is important to show a wine’s true potential, but don’t stress over getting the temp exactly right. Use the chart below to try to get in the right ballpark.