Napa Cellars 2018 Merlot, Napa Valley

This is an explosive offering of succulent black cherry and cola that finds balance and backbone on the structured midpalate. It finishes with hints of clove, cedar and toasted oak that linger.

Grapes for the 2018 Napa Cellars Merlot are sourced from vineyards mainly from the Oak Knoll region, along with a small portion from St. Helena and Carneros regions ideal for cultivating Merlot grapes. The moderate to cool climate in Napa Valley supports an extended growing season, resulting in elegant, intricate, complex and balanced wine.

Once harvested, the grapes underwent a 10 to 16 day maceration period and were fermented using the délestage method (rack and return). This process allows the winemaker to extract copious amounts of color and flavor from the skins, while avoiding excessive extraction of bitter and astringent flavors. After the fermentation process completed, the wine was aged for 15 months in 100% French oak barrels, 36% new.

This wine shows aromas of dark fruit, rich black cherry, blackberry, red plum and notes of graphite, violets, toffee and spice on the nose. Flavors of dark berries with black cherry, dark chocolate, brown sugar and caramel are complemented by notes of vanilla, smoky tobacco and soft leather. This approachable wine showcases a medium to full-bodied palate with well-structured tannin and balanced acidity through a long finish.