2021 Merlot

More than any other Bordelaise variety, merlot is defined by the fruit it brings to your glass.  This 2021 Merlot delivers on that promise and goes much further.  Layered on top of the core aromas of blackberry and just-ripe plum are complex notes of bay and dark chocolate.  Subtle hints of black cherry and temperate forest will entice the pinot noir lover, while its structure and tension, lent to it by our ample mountain sunshine, will impress even the most skeptical of cabernet fans.  This wine will be a lovely complement to any meal and has the gravitas to lay down for 15 years or more.  It’s hard to imagine a more perfect balance of power and elegance.

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Appellation: Napa County
Vintage: 2021
Harvest: October 2021
Fermentation: Stainless Steel
Cooperage: French Oak
Blend: 88% Merlot
12% Cabernet Sauvignon
Alcohol: 14.4%
Bottling: April 2023
Production: 4661 cases
Release Date: August 2023
Release Price: $69.00

Reviews

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  • Antonio Galloni Vinous: The 2021 Napa Valley Cabernets, Part One (Dec 2023) - Rating: 93

    The 2021 Merlot is packed with dark blue/purplish fruit, new leather, spice, tobacco, mocha and licorice. Juice and enveloping, with terrific energy, the Merlot is absolutely delicious. the birghter style here is so compelling. Plush contours wrap it all together. 

    -By Antonio Galloni on December 2023

  • Jeb Dunnuck: Napa Valley’s 2021s and 2022s – Part 1 - Rating: 92

    Lots of red plums, darker chocolate, and tobacco notes emerge from the 2021 Merlot, a beautifully textured, medium-bodied Pomerol look-alike that has fine tannins, notable purity, and a great finish. It's beautifully done and an utterly delicious, satisfying Merlot to drink over the coming decade.

  • The Wine Independent: 2021 Napa Valley Vintage Report and New Releases - Rating: 92

    The 2021 Merlot, with 12% Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, is deep garnet-purple in color. It springs with vivacious scents of black plums, black cherries, and juicy blueberries followed by hints of aniseed and spice cake. The medium to full-bodied palate is soft and juicy, with compelling freshness and a perfumed finish.

    Reviewed by: Lisa Perrotti-Brown

    Review date: 2023-12-21

     

  • Robert Parker Wine Advocate: Jul 03, 2024 - Rating: 91

    There are approximately 5,000 cases of the excellent 2021 Merlot. Black cherries lead the way, joined by slightly leafy hints and bright notes of raspberries and red cherries. It's medium to full-bodied, plump and round in the mouth but with just enough structure to maintain some shape, ending with a wash of softly dusty tannins.

    Reviewed by

    Joe Czerwinski 

  • Wine Enthusiast: 10/1/2024 - Rating: 92

    Plums and cherries accented by chunks of dark chocolate and a spiced finish, build a richly flavored and mouthwatering Merlot with a velvety textured, balanced acidity and a lot of persistence. Savory and satisfying. — Elaine Chukan Brown