2016 Napa Valley Merlot
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Tasting notes
Ripe and fleshy with rather supple tannins, this is a prototypical Napa merlot thatâs well balanced and has attractive blackberry and blueberry character, without a hint of overripeness. Drink now.
Critic scores
James Suckling
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A wine of real distinction, the 2016 Merlot is perfumed, savory and super-expressive. Mint, lavender, blueberry fruit, licorice and floral notes are all nicely woven together in this very pretty, gracious Merlot. Medium in body, fragrant and light on its feet, the 2016 has so much to offer. All the elements simply fall into place in a wine that conveys plenty of mountain character.
A blend of 93% Merlot, 4.5% Cabernet Franc and 2.5% Petit Verdot, the 2016 Merlot is deep purple-black colored and gives up warm plums, Black Forest cake and baked plums notions with a waft of unsmoked cigars. Medium to full-bodied with a good concentration of spiced plum flavors, it has a chewy texture and spicy kick to the finish.