Winemaker Notes
Napa native Michael Black has been a respected viticultralist and vineyard engineer for over 40 years. His resume includes planting many high profile vineyards in both Napa Valley and Sonoma County. In 1987 Michael decided to plant a vineyard on the rocky hillside surrounding his house. Located in Coombsville, the vineyard benefits from the two defining characteristics of the region: cool, marine influenced air and volcanic, well-drained soils. To give the vineyard a personal touch, Michael propagated his own Merlot clone that he named the “Black” Clone. The desired characteristics were small berries set in small clusters, all the better to concentrate the structure and complexity of the fruit. In 2004 COHO was privileged to become associated with the Michael Black Vineyard and began to purchase the entire output. The wines reveal a richness and depth of flavor that is most often associated with the Merlot based wines from the Pomerol region of Bordeaux. Our fans often say “this is a Cabernet lovers Merlot”.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A merlot showing aromas of plumbs, dried fruits and dark chocolate. This is dense with round, supple tannins and a slightly jammy finish. Drink now.
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.