The 2007 Napa Valley Merlot from Duckhorn Vineyards in St. Helena, CA was harvested between August 31st & October 31st, 2007. It is a blend of 89% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Verdot that was aged in French oak barrels (35% new, 65% second vintage ) for 16 months. The Cabernet Sauvignon & Petit Verdot add depth to the wine. 2007 was a dry year in Napa, rainfalls were 50% below average. Temperatures were also slightly cooler. This should provide for concentration of flavor in the grapes with reduced yield per acre.
The 2007 Duckhorn Napa Valley Merlot pours out deep purple, almost inky, in color. On the nose cherry, plum, tobacco and a little spice. Red currant, raspberry, fig with cedar and spice come through in the mouth. Silky tannins, good acidity. Full mouthfeel followed by a moderate lenght finish. This is a big Merlot, yet it is refined and complex. One of the better California Merlot wines on the market. This should age nicely over the next few years with a peak around 2016 or later.
$49.99 | 750ml bottle
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