Nickel & Nickel Suscol Ranch Merlot 2017
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Wilfred
Wong
Product Details
Your Rating
Somm Note
Winemaker Notes
The 2017 Suscol Merlot offers a perfect harmony of juicy and succulent flavors. A small swirl coaxes enticing aromas of dark plum, green olive, and cedar from the glass. Earthy notes of tobacco leaf, olive, tar, and spice blend nicely with the dark, sweet fruit. From year to year, this wine’s distinctiveness lies in the lush, velvety tannins that expand upon the initial sip and develop with richness through the finish.
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2017 Nickel & Nickel Suscol Ranch Merlot is well-built and nicely textured. TASTING NOTES: This wine brings ripe currants and a hint of oak onto the palate. Enjoy it with slow, oven-baked lamb shanks. (Tasted: February 27, 2021, San Francisco, CA)
Other Vintages
2015-
James
Suckling
As Napa Valley’s third most planted grape, Napa Valley Merlot shows time and time again its potential to produce exceptional results. Napa’s vaunted combination of climate, soil and the human factor of winemaking expertise lead to big, ripe, cellar-worthy and world-class versions.
Whether made by itself in single varietal bottlings or as an important role in Bordeaux Blends, Merlot continues a prominent role in this famous region. While Cabernet typically takes the lead role, Merlot’s contribution—even at 10% to 20% or so—is significant indeed. Often described as “the flesh on Cabernet’s bones,” Merlot lends a soft, round and plush character that beautifully complements Cabernet’s linear, full-throttle structure. Its flavors of plums plus subtle herbs and mint also dovetail nicely with Cabernet’s blackberry and cassis.