Winemaker Notes
Deep ruby in color with a purple glow on the edge, the 2015 Merlot opens with fresh notes of red raspberry and delicate hints of caramel that lead into more savory tones of rosemary and lavender. The silky entry delivers rich dark cherry flavors lifted by a bright acidity that drives all the way through the palate. The flavors are rounded with subtle, warm vanilla notes and linger on a pleasing bittersweet cocoa throughout the long and focused finish. This elegant wine is crafted to be approachable upon release and pair well with a variety of foods.
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2015 Sullivan Family Vineyards Merlot is rich, beautiful, and elegant. TASTING NOTES: This wine is a classic Napa Valley red wine. Its excellent aromas and flavors of black fruit and earth should pair it well with a grilled ribeye. (Tasted: March 6, 2020, San Francisco, CA)
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.