Winemaker Notes
Created by the same family that produces the impressive Cabernets of Silver Oak Cellars, the 2002 Twomey Merlot is an intense, concentrated wine that combines power and finesse into a beautiful balance. It displays a very dark, ruby color and a velvety, voluptuous mouth-feel with flavors of cherries covered in dark chocolate. Another exceptional handcrafted wine created by the Duncan Family.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Even better than the 2001 is the 2002 Merlot, a blend of 99.4% Merlot and .6% Cabernet Franc. The good news is that there are 10,845 cases of this sex pot of a Merlot. An exotic perfume of pepper, herbs, black cherries, plums, and raspberries is accompanied by an exciting texture, a plush, fleshy palate, and a concentrated, long heady, moderately tannic finish
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.