Duckhorn 2017 Merlot, Three Palms, Napa Valley

Probably the most celebrated and collectible Merlot that Napa Valley produces, Duckhorn Three Palms Vineyard is a true testament to the quality and character that Merlot can achieve in this ideal microclimate. In fact, the 2014 was the Wine Spectator #1 Wine of the Year. Named for its three iconic palm trees, the warm, up valley vineyard features lean soils that cause the vines to send their roots deep in search of nutrients, producing an intense, age-worthy wine with complex fruit and mineral layers.

This 2017 is 91% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot aged 18 months in 100% French Oak, 75% new This is their 40 Anniversary bottling It was selected #15 on the Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2020.

Wine Spectator scored his 96 points saying “Powerful, rich and complex, with a refined mix of currant, dark cherry and plum tart flavors backed by suave, medium-grained tannins. Well-defined slate and loamy notes stretch out nicely on the finish, with black olive hints. Drink now through 2027.”

Wine Enthusiast Magazine awarded this a Cellar Selection and scored it 93 points saying “This wine from a famous vineyard delivers brightly layered red fruit, crushed rock and dried herb. Powerful intensity marks the palate, with dense, grippy tannin's and well-integrated oak providing breadth and weight. Enjoy from 2027–2032.”

Wine & Spirits Magazine scored this 92 points saying “The three palms at this vineyard line the valley floor at a seam of rocks between St. Helena and Calistoga. That rocky soil has proven to be a great medium for the roots of merlot vines, allowing them to ripen cool fruit in the midst of a hot place. This 2017 is luscious, layering high tones of strawberries with darker depths of black cherries and herbs. Its richness would be delicious with rare filet mignon.” Extremely Limited!