Napa Merlot
The bulk of our Napa merlot is from California.
Napa Merlot questions
What does Napa Merlot taste like?
Napa Merlot often tastes of ripe plum, black cherry, blackberry, cocoa, vanilla, and baking spice. The warm growing season can produce generous fruit and a round, full texture. Oak aging may add cedar or chocolate notes. Well made versions still retain enough acidity to keep their richness balanced at the table.
How is Napa Merlot different from Napa Cabernet Sauvignon?
Merlot generally has softer tannins and more plum or black cherry character than Cabernet Sauvignon, which tends toward blackcurrant, cedar, and firmer structure. In Napa, both can be ripe and full bodied. Choose Merlot for a more immediately supple texture, or Cabernet when you want greater tannin and aging potential.
What food goes with Napa Merlot?
Napa Merlot suits roast duck, burgers, grilled pork, lamb, meatloaf, mushroom dishes, and hard cheeses. Its softer tannin makes it flexible enough for poultry with savory sauces as well as red meat. A richer, oak aged bottle works best with roasted or grilled flavors rather than delicate poached fish.
Should Napa Merlot be decanted?
Decant young Napa Merlot for about 30 minutes if it smells closed or tastes heavily oaked. Air can open the fruit and soften the first impression of tannin. Mature bottles may need only a gentle pour to remove sediment. Serve at 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for a fresher, more balanced expression.