Pahlmeyer 2017 Merlot, Napa Valley

Grapes for this 2017 Merlot were sourced from Pahlmeyer Estate vineyards and Rancho Chimiles in Napa Valley. Grape clusters were gravity-fed onto a vibrating table where two screens sifted out materials other than grapes, and we removed by hand any fruit that did not pass visual inspection. After gentle destemming, individual berries were hand-sorted again to ensure that only the best grapes were delivered to the fermenters. The fruit underwent five days of cold maceration and two to six weeks of primary fermentation before gentle basket press. The wine aged in 100% new French oak barrels for 20 months. 100% Merlot.

James Suckling scored this 97 points saying "Blueberries, plums, dark flowers, tar and sandalwood on the nose. It’s full-bodied and creamy with supple tannins. Polished and rich, yet so fresh and balanced. Smooth, firm and flavorful. Caressing finish. Plush 2017 character. Drink or hold.

Vinous scored this 94 points saying "The 2017 Merlot is plump, juicy and absolutely delicious. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, spice, new leather and lavender all jump from the glass as this rich, seductive Merlot shows off its alluring personality. Still recovering from its very recent bottling, the 2017 needs time to bounce back - but truthfully, it is already absolutely delicious and will be very easy to enjoy with minimal cellaring."

Extremely Limited!!