Winemaker Notes
It pairs well with dishes, such as medallions of beef tenderloin on a wild mushroom risotto, pasta with a fresh tomato and basil sauce and even accompanies a rich chocolate torte dessert. The wine will be luscious and ready to drink upon its release, but will age with grace and elegance for at least 1-6 years.
Our 1999 vintage is our inaugural release of Marcelina Napa Valley Merlot. Merlot from Napa Valley is known for being full bodied with intense red and black fruit flavors. This 1999 vintage is no exception. These wines have a tremendous ability to cellar for many years and will complement the finest dining occasions. This is due to their extraordinary balance and refinement. We believe the 1999 Marcelina Merlot to be the most expressive, rich and concentrated wine we have produced to date.
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.