Winemaker Notes
Crafted from diverse terroirs, this wine offers balance, depth, and finesse, with aromas of warm baking spices, cedar, and a hint of vanilla from well-integrated oak, while the medium- to full-bodied palate reveals a silky texture, layered fresh fruit flavors, and notes of chocolate and espresso, culminating in a long, lingering finish with echoes of dark chocolate, spice, and a refined minerality that reflects its Napa Valley origins.
Blend: 89% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot.
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
Violets burst from the glass and bloom on the palate, melding with a fine line of graphite that offers a slight grip before it lets go, giving way to sage and dark plum.
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.