Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
One of the few world-class Merlots in Napa Valley has always come from Pahlmeyer, and the 2008 looks to be no exception. Inky purple-colored, the wine offers up chocolatey espresso/mocha/cocoa notes as well as plenty of plum, black cherry and blacker fruits. Medium to full-bodied, with silky tannins, surprising elegance, and good richness, it is not the blockbuster it can be in some vintages, but it is very stylish and should drink well for 10-15 years.
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Wine Spectator
Densely structured, yet loaded with rich and supple fruit. Offers black raspberry and Asian spice aromas and concentrated red currant, loamy earth and espresso flavors.
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.