Winemaker Notes
Blend: 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot
Professional Ratings
-
Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
Exhibiting fresh red currant aromas and flavors, the stylish and focused 2013 Twomey Merlot is rewarding on the palate without being too heavy. The wine's bright black and red currant flavors pair it perfectly with lightly grilled lamb chops. (Tasted: April 13, 2017, San Francisco, CA)
-
James Suckling
Soft and easy merlot with green olive, plum and cherry aromas and flavors. Medium to full body, firm tannins and a fresh 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.