WEEKLY WINE DEAL: MERITAGE FROM MONDAVI

I've always found the made-up term "meritage" a bit pretentious, although it's less so when pronounced correctly (MEHR-eh-tej). But the Robert Mondavi Private Selection Meritage is a great value despite the onerous name. It's got a nice plushness leavened by nice acidity and soft tannins, providing more balance than most any other $11 wine. This red blend is hearty enough for most every wintry dish extant.