Winemaker Notes
Generous would be an understatement in describing the fruit of the 2022 Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot. The opulence and finesse of this wine beautifully showcase mountain fruit at its best. Blackberries dominate the first impression before unfurling into attractive aromas of black cherry and ripe plum, carefully accented by hints of bay and chocolate, with a touch of sage. The juicy, ripe fruit makes for a mouth-watering first sip, but is kept at heel by its considerable tension, owing to the playful interchange of its balanced acidity and supple tannin structure. It is those traits that linger, providing a long, luxurious finish.
Blend: 85% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Lush aromas of Damson plums, blackcurrants and dried herbs. The palate is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving notes of mocha, blueberry bush, graphite and licorice. Well balanced and textural. Drink or hold.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Spicy, herbal, black cherry, and leather-like notes all emerge from the 2022 Merlot, a medium-bodied, juicy, plump, incredibly satisfying, and delicious Merlot. It has ripe tannins and integrated acidity.
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Vinous
The 2022 Merlot is packed with blackberry jam, chocolate, licorice, espresso, menthol and tobacco. This full-bodied, potent Merlot packs a huge punch. Then again, this is 2022.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Pride's 2022 Merlot includes 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Red and black cherries lead the way on the nose, joined by hints of coffee and chocolate. In the mouth, this is full-bodied, plush and velvety yet retains decent acidity and reveals ample length on the finish.
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.