90 Points - Wine Enthusiast
90 Points, Gold Medal, EXCEPTIONAL - Tastings.com
Pair it with grilled flank steak, lamb burgers or veal chops.
Vintage: The 2018 vintage was bountiful, marked by cool, consistent temperatures and a timely rainfall for bud break in March and April. Harvest began on September tenth, and the grapes were of the highest quality with lower alcohol and high acidity.
Vineyard: This Merlot is grown both in cooler American Canyon and Carneros vineyards and in their warmer Yountville vineyard. They blended Merlot from all three vineyards to create a balanced, robust wine that combines the richness and depth from the warmer climates and perfume and bright fruitiness from the cooler climates. Committed to natural winegrowing and sustainability, farmed from five estate vineyards without artificial fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides and certified organic.
Alcohol: 14.4% by volume
Varietal: 88% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Napa Valley Estate
Harvest date: October 8-22, 2018
Sugar: 24.4 Brix (average)
Fermentation: Indigenous yeast
Skin Contact: 2 weeks in stainless steel
Total acid: 5.5g/L
pH: 3.62
Aging: 20 months
Type of oak: French oak barrels; 37% new, 63% neutral
Bottling date: July 2020
Release date: April 2021
You may also like:
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
93 Points
Big, forward bouquet with pear, golden apple, apple blossom, and dried orange peel. Loads of lime and grapefruit on the palate, maintaining balanced acidity and freshness. Subtle notes of honey and white flowers add depth to this lively wine.