Regardless, I don’t tend to like merlot. Perhaps I simply don’t like merlot by itself and the claret I am drinking isn’t entirely merlot and/or the winemaker is creating a blend that pleases my particular palate.
A good blend can be quite a blessing. E.g. Finger Lakes wineries produce a ton of absolutely dreadful red wines, but several wineries produce quite nice drinkable blends.
“Yes” is the short answer for me. I love pretty much all reds (but not *only *reds) and it all depends on the situation/time of year/my mood/etc. Love a meritage when I can get it; zin probably next on the list.