I chose Merlot as I thought it would give a richer look, however it picks up much more red than I had hoped.  The set is very nice, took about 2 hours to put together.  Drawers are larger than I had excepted which is a big plus, although they feel very cheap.  They are not meant for bulk items or lots of weight.  Overall very nice, especially for the price, mainly just wish i had chosen the alternate stain.