Winemaker Notes
Sterling's style of Merlot overlays the grape's plush mouthfeel and red fruit flavors with sixteen months of oak barrel aging that contributes rich toast and spice notes. In the addition to warmer temperature vineyards surrounding the winery, they draw on cooler sub-regions further south in Napa Valley to add complexity, brightness and finesse.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Aromas of blackberries and blueberries and hints of hot stone. Chocolate, too. Full body, round and juicy tannins and a flavorful finish. Delicious red. Drink or hold.
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.