Winemaker Notes
Blend: 89% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A firm core of tannins provides the underlying structure for the 2010 Merlot. This juicy, dark, yet wonderfully sophisticated and polished wine impresses for its balance and overall sense of harmony. The 2010 is impossibly young now, and it needs time, but is hugely promising. Layers of fruit flow effortlessly to the long, voluptuous finish. The blend is 89% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.
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Wine Spectator
Deep and powerful, but still tightly wound. Aromas of red currant, tomato leaf and vanilla lead to rich but firm black raspberry, Asian spice and mineral flavors. Best from 2015 through 2020. 1,500 cases made.
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.