Winemaker Notes
Blend: 96% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Made from a blend of 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2002 Merlot is the ultimate Merlot in terms of pure, seductive prowess. It possesses a dense purple color in addition to a gorgeous perfume of espresso roast, melted fudge, black currants, cherries and subtle smoke as well as earth, great intensity, and full-bodied opulence, in a voluptuous, juicy, unctuously textured style that cascades over the palate with no hard edges. This is haute couture of Merlot.
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Wine Spectator
A rich, concentrated yet elegant wine, with layers of mocha, currant and blackberry fruit. Tightens up on the finish, where the tannins flex their muscles. Intensity of the oak suggests short-term cellaring.
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.