Winemaker Notes
The color is an intense crimson with a tinge of purple, with dark berry fruit and savory mocha oak spice notes. The palate offers a burst of fruit up front and very rich mouthfeel, with black fruit and chocolate flavors carried on thick and dense tannins. The finish is lengthy, with lively and vibrant acidity that provides a note of intense freshness to balance the lush fruit flavors.
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.