2023 Duckhorn - Merlot Napa (750ml)
This bottling marks a milestone: the 2023 vintage is Duckhorn Vineyards' 50th-anniversary Merlot, tracing back to 1978 when founder Dan Duckhorn produced the winery's first vintage after a formative trip to Bordeaux. Sourced from estate vineyards and top sites across Napa Valley's Carneros, Calistoga, St. Helena, and Yountville appellations, the wine is predominantly Merlot blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and small amounts of Malbec and Cabernet Franc, a combination that adds depth and structure to the variety's naturally soft, expressive character. It spends about 15 months aging in French oak, roughly 40 percent new.
On the nose, expect vibrant aromas of red currant, raspberry, black plum, and baking spice, joined by notes of rhubarb, cardamom, and milk chocolate. The palate is silky and refined, with fine-grained tannins carrying layers of plum, cherry, and cocoa through to a bright, lively finish. Balanced acidity keeps the wine fresh rather than heavy, showcasing why Duckhorn remained committed to Merlot even as other producers turned away from the grape.
An excellent match for braised short ribs, roast lamb, or mushroom-forward dishes.