Winemaker Notes
The 2019 Keenan Napa Valley Merlot shows intense aromas of black cherry, blackberry, and cassis. Complex nuances of cocoa and coffee bean emerge as the wine opens up.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A soft and juicy red with plum, tile and blackberry aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied and juicy with a black-olive undertone. A blend of estate, mountain fruit and Carneros. Drink or hold.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Mostly from the estate's Spring Mountain property, with a bit of Carneros fruit as well, Keenan's 2019 Merlot features attractive scents of black cherries, mocha and toasted oak. This 100% Merlot is medium to full-bodied, smooth, silky, nicely rounded and ripe, with decent length. It's a solid all-around effort that sells for a reasonable price.
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.