Rex Goliath Merlot 1.5L is a fruit-forward California Merlot bottled at 13.5% ABV in a generous 1.5-liter magnum format. This expression earned a Double Gold and 98 points for Best Merlot of Region at the 2003 California State Fair, along with gold medals at the 2004 San Diego National Wine Competition, 2004 Dallas Morning News Wine Competition, and 2004 New World International Wine Competition.Quick Facts: ABV: 13.5% | Origin: California, USA | Varietal: 100% Merlot | Winery: HRM Rex-Goliath, Modesto, CAProduction & HeritageHRM Rex-Goliath takes its name from a 47-pound rooster allegedly exhibited at county fairs in the early 1900s — the brand's unmistakable label pays homage to that outsized legend. The winery, based in Modesto, California, sources grapes from across the state and applies a winemaking philosophy centered on letting fruit character lead. Rather than relying on new oak, the Merlot sees treatment in one- to two-year-old American oak barrels, a deliberate choice that softens wood influence and keeps ripe berry flavors at the forefront.Tasting NotesAroma: The nose opens with ripe black cherry and cassis, followed by layers of cedar and charred wood. A thread of black pepper and subtle spice adds complexity beneath the fruit.Taste: The palate is round and mouth-filling, led by plum, cherry, and wild red berry flavors. A mid-palate note of milk chocolate emerges alongside a touch of dried herbs, supported by soft tannins and a clean seam of balancing acidity.Finish: The finish is medium in length with lingering plum skin and a faint herbal quality. Tannins remain supple throughout, making the wine feel smooth and approachable from start to close.How to Drink Rex Goliath MerlotThis Merlot drinks well at a slight chill — around 60–65°F — straight from the glass with no fuss. Its fruit-driven, low-tannin profile also makes it a natural fit for casual mixed drinks. A Red Wine Spritzer with sparkling water and a citrus twist plays to its juicy berry character. A Kalimotxo (equal parts red wine and cola over ice) pairs well because the plum sweetness balances the cola's bitterness. A Sangria benefits from the wine's bold fruit and soft structure, which blend seamlessly with fresh-cut stone fruit and a splash of brandy.Best For Hosting a backyard barbecue or casual dinner party where volume matters Weeknight cooking — both as a drinking wine and a deglazing ingredient Stocking a home bar with an everyday red at a wallet-friendly price point Bringing a crowd-pleasing bottle to a potluck or tailgate Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat does Rex Goliath Merlot taste like? Rex Goliath Merlot is a ripe, fruit-forward wine dominated by plum, cherry, and wild berry flavors with supporting notes of chocolate and dried herbs. Soft tannins and moderate acidity make it smooth and easy to drink.How does Rex Goliath Merlot compare to Rex Goliath Cabernet Sauvignon? Both wines share the same fruit-forward winemaking approach and American oak treatment, but the Cabernet Sauvignon leans toward darker fruit and firmer tannin structure. The Merlot is softer on the palate with rounder berry character and less grip on the finish.Is Rex Goliath Merlot good for beginners? Its low tannin, ripe fruit profile, and smooth texture make it one of the more approachable red wines available, well suited to anyone exploring Merlot for the first time. The 1.5L format also allows plenty of room to experiment with food pairings.Where is Rex Goliath Merlot made? Rex Goliath Merlot is produced by HRM Rex-Goliath Winery in Modesto, California, using grapes sourced from vineyards across the state. The wine is aged in one- to two-year-old American oak barrels.What foods pair well with Rex Goliath Merlot? Grilled burgers and sausages complement the wine's ripe berry flavors. Roasted mushroom dishes echo its earthy undertones. Tomato-based pastas like bolognese match its acidity and fruit weight. Mild cheddar or Gouda cheeses amplify the chocolate and plum notes. Roasted chicken thighs with herbs align with the wine's subtle herbal finish.What sizes does Rex Goliath Merlot come in? Rex Goliath Merlot is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle and the 1.5-liter magnum size reviewed here, which offers double the volume for extended entertaining or everyday use.Is Rex Goliath Merlot worth the price? Rex Goliath Merlot positions firmly in the value tier of California Merlot, delivering reliable fruit character, oak nuance, and competition gold medals at a price point well below most varietal-labeled alternatives. For high-volume, everyday drinking it represents strong value per glass.Why Rex Goliath Merlot?The combination of a 98-point Double Gold at the California State Fair and multiple additional gold medals across national competitions gives this wine a competitive pedigree unusual for its price bracket. The deliberate use of older American oak rather than new barrels allows Merlot fruit — plum, cherry, wild berry — to remain the focal point instead of being masked by heavy toast and vanilla. In a category crowded with bland, over-oaked value reds, Rex Goliath Merlot delivers genuine varietal character with enough soft structure to satisfy on its own or hold up alongside food. The 1.5-liter format doubles down on that value proposition, making it a practical choice for anyone who wants a dependable California red on hand without constantly restocking.
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