Winemaker Notes
The Napa Valley Merlot opens with red and black berry fruit aromas. The palate is layered with notes of ripe black cherry, raspberry, cassis and bramble berry fruit with hints of cola, milk chocolate, graham cracker and sweet baking spices – all influences from the oak aging. Mouthwatering acidity carries through on the finish, while supple tannins frame this generous Merlot and give it cellar worthiness and a beautiful structure.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A Napa merlot with aromas of plums, asphalt, bark and a touch of dried rosemary. The palate is round, with glossy tannins and flavors of mocha and dark fruit that follow through to a rich, flavorful 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.