Winemaker Notes
The 2023 Blueline Estate Merlot is a striking expression of the vineyard’s depth and vibrancy, balancing rich fruit intensity with layered complexity. Aromatically, dark red fruits intertwine with bright red currant, and mandarin orange. The palate unfolds with plush layers of plum, hoisin sauce, and anise, complemented by a structured mid-palate tannin presence. Carefully crafted to preserve its natural balance, the wine was destemmed with 50% crushed berries, underwent a two-day cold soak, and fermented on skins with meticulous pump-over management. The result is a Merlot of remarkable purity and tension, with vibrant acidity and supple.
Blend: 80% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3%other red varietals
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Hourglass's Blueline Estate is next to Three Palms, so for those familiar with Duckhorn's (and Sterling's) history with that site, it should be no surprise that Hourglass's 2023 Merlot Blueline Estate looks to be highly successful. Mocha, leather and black cherries appear on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is richly concentrated and structured, giving way to a long, tannic finish.
Range: 93-95 -
James Suckling
Savory aromas of luscious black fruit, spices, stones and red bricks. The palate is medium- to full-bodied with finely framed tannins, succulent acidity and an earthy, minerally finish. Made from 80% merlot, 17% cabernet sauvignon, 1% malbec, 1% petit verdot and 1% cabernet franc. Decant for maximum pleasure.
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Wine Spectator
Broad of shoulder yet rich and structured, with deep flavors of blackberry and cherry laced with dusty herb, coffee bean and savory spice flavors that build tension and tannins on the finish.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Based on 80% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec, and 1% Cabernet Franc and aged 20 months in 65% new French oak, the 2023 Merlot Blue Line Estate offers red and black cherries, sappy herbs, flowers, and graphite notes. It's medium to full-bodied, with a pure, layered mouthfeel, integrated acidity, and fine tannins. This balanced, elegant, undeniably delicious Merlot should drink well over the coming decade. There are roughly 625 cases produced. Drink 2025-2035.
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Vinous
The 2023 Merlot Blueline Estate is a gorgeous, classy wine. Strong savory and earthy notes lend quite a bit of character. Crushed flowers, herbs, mint, coffee and crushed autumn leaves all grace this attractive mid-weight offering. This is impeccably done.
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.