Merlot is the most widely planted red grape in Bordeaux and is responsible for some of the greatest Right Bank Bordeaux wines like Petrus, Ausone, and Cheval Blanc. Merlot is often described as soft and velvety, but it can actually display moderate amounts of tannin and sometimes high alcohol. Merlot can be challenging to grow because it ripens early and buds early. It rewards considerable attention in the vineyard and grows well on the Right Bank in Bordeaux, Washington State, California and Chile. Taste: Blueberry, mint, cigar box, cherry, chocolate, vanilla, plum, coffee, spice.
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94 WE Duckhorn's Three Palms bottling is one of the oldest and most consistent Merlot designations in California and this is a classic example. The wine is always very tannic. But the '05 is dry and rich with mineral-laden cherries and currants with just the right application of new oak. Decant.
Roses, violets, and blackberries infused with the spiciness of black pepper, cloves and mint. Sourced from the eastern foothills of Napa Valley, the wine is well balanced with moderate tannins and a pleasing essence of oak on the long finish.
Very pleasant Merlot with a slightly jammy style. A mix of soft plum, cherry and prune fruit laced with grilled herb notes. Toasty finish. No sulfite added...less than 10 parts per million.
Opulent fresh-plum persona is here enhanced by notes of tobacco, leather, and vanilla, providing a multidimensional mouthful that doesn't pander to undiscriminating palates.
Packed with deep, dark berry fruit and nuanced hints of cocoa, herb and earth with a soft structure. Its velvety texture makes Merlot instantly appealing and an obvious alternative to similar, more tannic Bordeaux varieties.
87 pts. - JM Forward and tasty, with plum, toast and cocoa notes, and a ripe, fleshy finish. Drink now. 21,700 cases made.
Soft and herbal, with appealing flavors of red cherries, chocolate, sage and mint. Drink this dry, elegant wine now.
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