K-J Vintner's Reserve '07 a nice, casual merlot

<p>Press Democrat wine writer Peg Melnik scopes out restaurant wine lists around the North Bay, looking for good value and the occasional splurge. This week's picks (prices are retail; restaurant markup varies):</p><p>KJ Vintner's Reserve, 2007 Sonoma County Merlot, 13.5 percent alcohol, $18. This is a good, casual merlot with aromas and flavors of black cherry, plum, herbs and spice. Nice texture. Good length.</p><p>Landmark, 2008 Overlook Sonoma County/Santa Barbara County Chardonnay, 14.2 percent, $28. A big, toasty chardonnay that's oak-driven and fruit-forward. Notes of pear, melon, apple, butterscotch, vanilla and toast. Lingering finish.</p><p>Pali, 2008 Summit Monterey County/Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir, 14.6 percent, $29. A pinot with deep concentration of fruit. Aromas and flavors of cherry, herbs and spice. Crisp and balanced.</p><p>Bedrock Wine Co., 2008 Kick Ranch Sonoma County Syrah, 15.1 percent, $30. A muscular syrah with dark cherry fruit, herbs and spice. Has depth, with layered flavors. Long finish.</p><p>Papapietro Perry, 2008 Peters Vineyard, Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, 14.5 percent, $49. Aromas and flavors of dried cherry, raspberry, anise and pepper. Great acidity. Balanced flavors.</p><p>Want to share a current wine on your favorite restaurant's list? E-mail peg.melnik@ pressdemocrat.com or check out her Tasting Room blog at pressdemocrat.com.</p>