Winemaker Notes
This is a complex wine with excellent oak integration, balanced acids, silky tannins and a long, fruity finish. The bouquet is brimming with aromas of raspberry and blackberry followed by distinctive elements of earth, spice and smoked meat. Filled with sweet black fruits and an underlying essence of ripe strawberry, the Estate Grown Merlot also offers enticing accents of warm caramel, vanilla and cream.
Professional Ratings
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.