Winemaker Notes
The 2015 vintage was very dry and warm, with low yields for Pinot Noir. As a result, it was very important to harvest in advance of hot weather to keep the nuance, depth and freshness of Pinot Noir. Very seductive on the nose with notes of flowers, black currant and orange rind. The mouthfeel is fresh with soft tannins and a finish that brings flavors of cigars and blackberries. Properly cellared, this wine can be enjoyed over the next 10-15 years.
Professional Ratings
-
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2015 Pinot Noir is slightly more pure and focused than the 2014, yet has similar black cherries, dried earth, flowers and spicy aromas and flavors. It's medium-bodied, nicely concentrated and textured. Drink it over the coming 4-5 years.
-
James Suckling
There’s a lot of ripe fruit on the nose, which heads into slightly overripe territory with dried blackberries, sultanas and then lots of vanilla. The palate, though, holds itself together with some firm tannins and bright acidity. Drink in 2021.
Merryvale Vineyards is a family-owned Napa Valley winery dedicated to passionate winemaking and the fine art of living well. For the past 25 years Merryvale has been turning exceptional Napa Valley grapes into world class wine. Merryvale is world renowned for rich, powerful Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, the iconic Bordeaux-style red blend, Profile, and our everyday drinking, fruit driven brand, Starmont. Merryvale's historic building was the first winery built in the Napa Valley after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, and has become a must see attraction for visitors to the valley.
Merryvale is committed to protecting and preserving the environment through conservation, renewable energy and sustainable farming practices at our three estate vineyards. Merryvale has received Napa Green Vineyard, Napa Green Winery and Bay Area Green Business certifications.
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.