Winemaker Notes
Aromas of dried plum and cassis mingle with hints of blueberry jam and floral notes of geranium while beautifully interlaced with barrel notes of sandalwood and red cedar which all combine to create an impressive complexity on the nose. On the palate, the entry is round and juicy giving way to a mid-palate displaying slightly dusty tannins that provide enough structure without being overly aggressive. The wine ends with a long, elegant finish that shows a subtle graphite minerality creating a beautiful expression of this cool-climate Napa Valley Merlot.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Expressive aromas of blackcurrants, licorice, violets, crushed blueberries, damson plums, menthol and rose petals. The palate is medium-bodied with finely tuned tannins and a bright yet rounded mouthfeel. Excellent freshness and purity with a touch of polish.
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Jeb Dunnuck
The 2023 Merlot reveals blackberries, black cherries, peppery herbs, graphite, and chocolate on the nose, and it's medium-bodied, with nicely balanced concentration and solid structure.
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.