Earth Wise California Merlot 2006

About a month ago, I picked up this bottle in honor of Earth Day. Our local Harris Teeter had a huge display of this brand, apparently manufactured specifically for the grocery chain. In addition to merlots, Earth Wise Vineyards makes all types of wine using 'Earth Friendly Sustainable Farming Practices.' YES! They proudly state on their label that they've used these practices for many years and that they believe this 'harmonious vineyard management enhances the grape quality and makes [us] better stewards of our Planet.' SOLD!

Living green is so a la mode right now that it was only a matter of time before the wine industry tapped into that popularity. What honors Mother Earth more than soil, vineyards, and grapes? Wine should be the green-conscious person's drink of choice! If you're inclined to follow my clearly biased logic, Earth Wise Vineyards is a nice place to start. This merlot is fruit-filled without being too fruity. You'll definitely pick up the taste of black cherries and raspberries but there was also a hint of chocolate, or at least something richer than fruit. The first few sips are actually a little overwhelming, but it goes down smoothly. I'm looking forward to trying out some of their other wines; please let me know if you've tasted their other reds or whites.

I'm happy that living green is receiving more and more attention these days and would like to round off my post with a few more green thoughts. I may not live the greenest life as I could, but I do try, and I definitely admire those who practice what they preach. (Does Cameron Diaz really follow that toilet rule? Wow.) I'm obsessed with my reusable store/grocery bags and try to live as electronically as possible (banking, bills, etc.), so as to cut down on paper usage. Saving the environment is a concept I believe in and I like to think that I help in my own little way. I think it's easy to forget that seemingly tiny actions help and while there are huge causes out there that need attention (the Amazon rainforest, global warming, etc.), starting within your home and community is just as worthy a cause to dedicate yourself to. For all of you New Yorkers out there, this post is your lucky day. There is a lovely non-profit that dedicates itself to and supports local environmental projects and they've chosen to start in your city. Ioby.org explores the idea that environmentalism and awareness starts In Our BackYards. Please check this site out and all the great work they involve themselves in; perhaps we can help spread them out beyond NYC. I'm quite proud to know one of the founders of this operation and she definitely deserves this shout-out. Enlighten us with your green ways, Erin!

Earth wise Merlot, 7 out of 10. Ioby.org and all those who live green, 10 out of 10.

Harris Teeter, $9.99