93 Points - JamesSuckling.com
91 Points - The Wine Palate
Pair it with grilled flank steak, lamb burgers or veal chops.
Vintage: The growing season was free from severe weather issues, and, despite the drought, yield increased five percent from 2020. There was no significant rainfall past the month of February, but mild spring and summer conditions provided an ideal environment for grapes to flower, bloom, and set in early spring. Notably cooler temperatures in August and September allowed them to pick each block at its ideal point of ripeness, leading to outstanding quality and great concentration in the fruit. The grape harvest drew to a close at the end of October, with the last grapes arriving just before an atmospheric river brought much-needed rain to Northern California.
Vineyard: This Merlot grows 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, complex wine that combines the richness and depth from the warmer climates and perfume and bright fruitiness from the cooler climates. All farmed certified organic vineyards naturally, using the principles of regenerative agriculture.
Alcohol: 14.3% by volume
Varietal: 81% Merlot, 14% Cab. Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
Appellation: Napa Valley Estate
Harvest date: Sept. 23 - Oct. 15, 2021
Sugar: 23.8 Brix (average)
Fermentation: Indigenous yeast
Skin Contact: 2 weeks in stainless steel
Total acid: 5.7 g/L
pH: 3.67
Aging: 20 months
Type of oak: French oak barrels; 37% new, 63% neutral
Bottling date: August 2023
Release date: October 2024
95 Points
Deep garnet-purple in color and strides confidently out of the glass with notes of crushed blueberries, ripe blackberry, and warm cassis with hints of cherry, black olive, currant and a touch of black pepper.
94 Points
Aromas of honey, ginger, and key lime radiate from this elegant Chardonnay. A burst of fresh citrus, lime, and star fruit enlivens the front palate upon first sip and is quickly followed by ginger and white pepper, all underscored by subtle notes of white peach and cardamom. Vibrant acidity and steely minerality give the wine excellent structure as it moves into a long, flavorful finish.
90 Points
Aromas of cranberry, sour cherry, plum, and orange rind, complemented by hints of forest floor, pine needles, and rosemary. The wine opens with flavor of juicy red fruit supported by spicy undertones of red pepper and black tea. The freshness of its red fruit are enhanced a vibrant core of light acidity and full rich tannins all of which linger gracefully in the long finish.
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