Winemaker Notes
Aromas of black cherry, cassis, dried raspberries, vanilla and black pepper are followed by flavors of red cherry, raspberry, cassis and dark chocolate. A well balanced wine with good structure, full round flavors and a long finish.
A versatile wine that will pair well with garlic roasted pork loin with a raspberry chipotle glaze, hearty pasta dishes such as spicy Italian sausage lasagna, grilled lamb chops or seared salmon with a Merlot reduction sauce.
Drinkable at an early age, but will also benefit from additional cellaring. This wine has the potential to be cellared for 6-10 years past the vintage date.
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.