Considered nearly perfect vintage for Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Wine Spectator rated the vintage 99 on its 100-point scale.
The Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley is probably one of the lesser-known sub-AVAs within the Napa Valley proper, sitting at the southern end of the valley. This southern location puts it closer to the San Pablo Bay, moderating temperatures and resulting in wines that may be a bit lighter than those from vineyards further north. The result is wines that are beautifully balanced, with great potential for aging, and that pair wonderfully with food. Today's offering from R. Merlo Vineyards provides a wonderful example of Cabernet Sauvignon grown in the Oak Knoll District.
The 2007 Raymond Merlo Oak Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon is deep ruby in color. The nose shows typical Cabernet aromas of black cherry, leather, and pencil lead, with an intriguing blueberry note. The palate starts with more cherry, joined by spicy, tobacco notes and cassis. Medium bodied and vibrant, this wonderfully fresh (especially for 7 years of age!), this classic Cabernet looks to have a long life ahead of it. And now for the best part: we are offering it at an astounding 50% discount. Wine with this pedigree and aging potential for under $30, and with a Napa designation to boot, simply doesn’t come along often, so don’t miss out on this one.
Grape Source: Oak Knoll of Napa Valley
Aging: 24 months in French oak (40% new oak)
Acid/pH: .60 / 3.53
Harvest Brix: 24.2
Residual Suga: 0.2%
Alcohol Content: 14.1%
Bottling Date: November 2013
Production: 600 Cases
You may also like:
96 Points
Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
94 Points
Juice explodes out right of the glass with its dark purple in color and bursting aromas of black cherry jam, boysenberry, raspberry and wild cherry interlaced with hints of baking spice, espresso bean, and toasted nut. The palate is ripe and juicy with flavors of dark cherry, huckleberry and raspberry perfectly integrated with notes of spice, dark chocolate, and a kiss of toasty oak.
PDF