Winemaker Notes
A true expression of Napa Valley Merlot, this wine opens with vibrant aromas of red currant, raspberry, black plum, and baking spices, accented by notes of rhubarb crumble, cardamom, and milk chocolate. The palate is silky and refined, with fine-grained tannins carrying layers of plum, cherry, and cocoa powder. A bright, elegant finish highlights the wine’s balance and graceful structure.
Blend: 78% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Franc
Professional Ratings
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Decanter
I've been enjoying Duckhorn Merlot for decades. The 2023 release, a blend of 78% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Franc, aged 15 months in 40% new French oak, delivers another satisfying, classic rendition of the iconic wine. Pretty red berry fruit, dusty rose and mineral notes, integrated cedarwood spices, all meld together on the medium-bodied palate, where juicy plum, brown baking spices, and fine-grained tannins build with harmony and grace through the easy-going, mouthwatering finish.
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James Suckling
This is such a lovely wine, with aromas of soft black and blue fruit, herbs, spices and plum skin. The palate is fine, with mouthwatering tannins and bright, vibrant acidity. A very well-balanced and refined merlot.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
The 2023 Duckhorn Vineyards NAPA VALLEY MERLOT — Deep ruby in color; attractive kitchen pantry spices gracefully rise from the glass; medium to full bodied, active on the palate with beautifully ripened tannins lending structure and polish; crushed berry flavors are nicely framed by well-integrated oak and admirable balance; bright, lively finish. This wine delivers both richness and freshness, showing the generosity of Merlot while maintaining poise and energy. Enjoy this with a slow-braised Korean-inspired short rib, where the wine’s ripe fruit, spice, and polished tannins beautifully complement the dish's savory richness. (Tasted: May 14, 2026, San Francisco, CA)
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Wine Enthusiast
Dark cherry, rich chocolate, balsamic, mint, and black pepper aromas swirl on the nose of this wine. The palate is plush but nimble, with zippy acid lifting rich tannins and flavors of roasted raspberry, red plum, cocoa, and fresh flowers across the finish. It’s a friendly and versatile wine that can be paired with a wide range of grilled courses
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Wine Spectator
Handsomely structured and refined, with deft red currant and cherry flavors laced with bay leaf and cedar flavors that end with fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2033.
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.