Winemaker Notes
Aromas of red cherry, raspberry, plums, cassis, earth, pepper and vanilla are followed by smooth, ripe cherry, currant and raspberry flavors with a touch of cassis, earth and chocolate. A well balanced wine with good structure, full round flavors and a lingering finish.
A versatile wine that will pair well with roast pork tenderloin, barbecued pork ribs, baked ham, grilled figs with prosciutto and gorgonzola dolce, hearty pastas, grilled lamb chops and seared or smoked salmon.
Delicious at an early age, but will also benefit from additional cellaring of 5-7 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.