Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
Where is this wine going? Emmolo, under the direction of Winemaker/Proprietor Jenny Wagner, has quickly become one of the top Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc producers in the Napa Valley. Yes, she comes from a great wine family. Father Chuck and mother Cheryl have led the way. She took the reins of Emmolo from her mom and has never looked back. The 2013 Emmolo Merlot is packed with fruit and is so sumptuous on the palate. Some might say that it is a bit too accessible, but I find the wine in the perfect sweet spot for Merlot. Medium to deep ruby in color, up-front ripe fruit aromas, lots of berries and a hint of dust; medium bodied, sweet tannins abound, well structured; dryish, medium acidity, good balance; ripe and smooth on the palate, a hint of sweet oak to keep well formed; fine and smooth in the aftertaste. Worthy of a crown roast of lamb. (Tasted: December 10, 2015, San Francisco, CA)
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James Suckling
Bright and fruity style of merlot with blueberry and blackberry, light and silky tannins and a bright finish. High-toned but fresh and clean.
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.