Duckhorn Napa Valley Merlot 2022

The 2022 Duckhorn Napa Valley Merlot is a masterful and velvety expression of the varietal from a pioneer of the style. It presents an alluring, deep ruby colour and opens with a complex aromatic profile of black cherry, plum, and huckleberry, seamlessly layered with sophisticated notes of vanilla, clove, and sweet tobacco. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and supple, showcasing a lush core of dark fruit balanced by a bright, refreshing acidity and fine-grained tannins. Aging for 15 months in French oak (roughly 40% new) provides a refined structure and subtle spicy nuances, leading to a long, polished finish with lingering echoes of cocoa, cedar, and savory herbs.

Food Pairing: Perfectly matches with roasted duck breast with a cherry reduction, grilled lamb chops, mushroom risotto, beef tenderloin, or aged cheeses like Gouda and Camembert.

92  Points - James Suckling

92 Points - Wine Spectator