Marilyn Merlot 2021

The color is immediately captivating in this rich deep purple hued 2017 Merlot. There is good intensity on the nose with well integrated aromas that hint of ripe plums, orange zest and cherries. On the palate there are subtle notes of vanilla, cocoa and baked, nicely browned pie crust. This wine has more than ample body and structure for a Napa Merlot, but still maintains that rich, nice balance as it glides across the palate, ending with a long enjoyable finish.

This is the first vintage of Merlot from a new vineyard in Coombsville, sub AVA within Napa Valley that is becoming known for one of the premier areas to grow Merlot. Most of the Merlot in this wine as well as the Cabernet Sauvignon that we blended in this wine to add a little more structure and complexity are from this vineyard we hope to be working with for many years.

Flavors follow along with hints of vanilla (from a judicious use of new oak), dark bright fruit, Santa Rosa Plum and Queen Anne Cherries baking spices with a rich texture and a full mouthfeel. This is a well-balanced Merlot that lingers nicely on the palate and finishes with a long, luscious finish.