Winemaker Notes
Deep garnet with shimmering purple hues, the enticing red berry aromas and flavors leap from the glass in a bounty of fresh ripe fruits. Red raspberries, macerated strawberries, dark Bing cherry, and cassis please the palate, supported by nuances of oak spice alongside layers of dark chocolate, black tea, and a hint of orange peel. Rich in mouthfeel, but supple and silky in texture, leading to a long mouthwatering finish, making this Merlot an easy entertaining and quaffing wine with friends.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Plummy aromas of redcurrants, ripe red cherries and licorice. Full-bodied with silky tannins. Well-ripened fruit with floral and herbal character. Juicy and delicious.
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.