Winemaker Notes
This wine displays the hallmark characteristics of Napa Valley Merlot crafted in a classic and food-friendly style. In the glass, the wine is vibrant ?garnet red ?in? color? and has lifted aromatics of ?red plum, dark cherry? and ????dusty ?milk chocolate?. ? The fruit on the palate is bright? with? ?satsuma plum and red berries. The prominent? acid line throughout the palate fits neatly with the mid-weight tannin profile? and leads to a finish that has touches of bitter dark chocolate. Gather up a group of friends, light the fire-pit, and grill up some BBQ pork-ribs. Maybe add some juniper berries and a touch of heat to the glaze.
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.