Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2012 Merlot exhibits a dense purple color, abundant cocoa, white chocolate, black cherry and plummy fruit, medium body, good depth and power, and an excellent finish. Drink now-2020.
-
Wine Spectator
Combines plushness and power. Deep black cherry aromas open to complex flavors of red currant, cedar and mocha, finishing with big but ripe tannins. Drink now through 2022.
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.