Winemaker Notes
The aromas of loganberry and warm, baked raspberry pie are as inviting as they are comforting. Nicely integrated creamy French oak keeps this wine light on its feet, adding a spicy toast component to the fruit. The blending of 9% Cabernet Sauvignon lends a core of cassis fruit and rounded tannins. On the palate the texture is seamless and begs to be paired with richly flavored reduction sauces. This is a perfectly balanced, medium weight Merlot with characteristic softness and roundness. Enjoy this Merlot now, with grilled steak, at Thanksgiving dinner or with savory winter meals.
-Douglas Danielak, Winemaker
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.