Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2010 Red Blend Meritage, from vineyards in Knights Valley, is supple, inviting and totally delicious. Juicy dark berries, freshly cut flowers and licorice are some of the many nuances that inform the generous, caressing finish. The 2010 is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.