Winemaker Notes
When Tony and Herta “H.B.” Peju relocated to Rutherford Napa Valley from Los Angeles in 1983, they brought with them a vision of building a winery, an unwavering work ethic, and two young daughters who soaked in their parents’ entrepreneurial spirit and love for Napa’s beautiful farmland. They established Peju Winery and dedicated themselves to welcoming guests and crafting exceptional wines from Napa Valley. Peju remains family-owned with Tony and HB’s two daughters Lisa and Ariana guiding the business today. Lisa and Ariana are bringing fresh ideas while maintaining the meticulous focus on quality that began nearly 40 years ago.
The family owns and sustainably farms six estate vineyards in Napa Valley ranging from Carneros, Napa’s coolest growing region, all the way north to Calistoga. Rare in today’s wine industry, the family’s careful oversight of its estate vineyards assures quality from grape to glass. Peju’s 30-acre Rutherford Estate was certified organic in 2007 by the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and in 2019 all six of their vineyard properties were certified under the Fish Friendly Farming program. With its landmark tower, warm hospitality, and award-winning wines Peju is a celebrated place to visit in Napa Valley.
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.