2023 Merlot, Napa Valley
76% Merlot, 16% Petit Verdot, 8% Petite Sirah
Presenting expressive aromas of crushed red fruits, notably raspberry, with a savory hint of dried fennel. The palate is medium-bodied, with flavors of blackcurrant, raspberry, and plum, which linger alongside more subtle layers of dried herbs, forest floor, and crushed graphite.
Wine Specs
Vintage
2023
Varietal
Merlot
Appellation
Napa Valley
Acid
5.52
pH
3.74
Residual Sugar
0.25
Alcohol %
14.5
Wine Profile
Ratings
92 Points - James Suckling
Vineyard Notes
Sourced from premier Merlot vineyards across Napa Valley, this wine benefits from a range of microclimates and soils from the cooler, marine-influenced sites of Carneros to the warmer, well-drained benchlands of northern Napa. This diversity of terroir yields a complex expression of Merlot, with layers of concentrated dark fruit, supple tannins, and a balance of structure and approachability that reflects the character of the vintage and region.
Production Notes
1st Bottling
Winemaker Notes
We carefully managed tannin extraction throughout the winemaking process. The three-day cold soak and twice-daily pumpovers during fermentation were essential for achieving the desired structure and complexity in our Merlot. After pressing, malolactic fermentation in both barrel and tank contributed to the wine’s smooth, velvety texture, creating a wine of exceptional balance and finesse.
Food Pairing Notes
Pair with a classic cheeseburger with caramelized onions. Merlot’s soft tannins and round red fruit make it a flexible wine for most food pairings.