Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This is one of the most beautiful Merlot's of the vintage. It's hard to describe the depth of aroma and flavor. Blackberry and cassis, violets and a lush overlay of smoky oak doesn't do it justice. Sumptuous, complex tannins and a brilliant, velvety texture and an unending finish also suggest the real deal. Delicious.
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Wine Spectator
Outstanding. Serves up a generous, juicy core of ripe plum, raspberry, wild berry plus touches of chocolate, coffee and cedar, finishing with a smooth texture, the right amount of tannin and a dash of herb.
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.