Winemaker Notes
Blend: 94% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A rich and opulent merlot with lots of dried fruit and spices. Some dried herbs, too. Full-bodied, round and juicy. For those who like more fruit-driven style. Remains fresh. 94% merlot, 3% cabernet sauvignon and 3% malbec. Drink now.
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Wine Spectator
Big and rich, with good cut to the lively blend of dried red fruit and cedar flavors. The minerally finish features accents of dried green herbs and spice. Drink now through 2021.
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.