Merryvale Profile 2009

Merryvale Profile 2009 is an exceptional Bordeaux-style red blend from Napa Valley, California, representing the pinnacle of Merryvale Vineyards' winemaking craftsmanship. Composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 3% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc, this distinguished vintage draws upon carefully selected fruit, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot from the estate's renowned Profile Vineyard. Aged for 21 months in 100% new French oak barrels followed by an additional year in bottle before release, it offers remarkable depth, concentration and refinement. Aromas of cassis, blackberry, raspberry liqueur and sweet vanilla unfold alongside liquorice, elegant oak and warming baking spices. Rich and generously textured, the palate reveals layers of dark berries, black cherry and subtle cedar, supported by fine tannins and balanced freshness. Its long, sophisticated finish showcases the harmony, complexity and impressive ageing potential of this flagship Napa Valley wine.

Food Pairing: An outstanding accompaniment to prime ribeye steak, herb-crusted rack of lamb, slow-braised beef short ribs, beef Wellington and roasted venison. Its concentrated dark fruit, polished tannins and savoury complexity also complement wild mushroom risotto, truffle-infused dishes, aged Comté, mature cheddar and grilled portobello mushrooms.

94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2009 Profile is made up of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 3% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet colored, it features notions of baked blackberries, black cherry compote and crème de cassis with hints of cedar chest, pencil lead, spice box and fragrant soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has loads of relatively youthful, bright fruit with a refreshing line and grainy tannins to support, finishing with compelling purity.

94 Points - Wine Enthusiast

This falls midway between the spectacular '08 and the elegant '07. Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, its grapes were grown in St. Helena. The wine shows softly lush tannins and deep, complex flavors of red fruit, berry, licorice, cocoa and mineral that easily stand up to 100% new French oak. Don't open it until at least 2018, and it should develop for many years afterward.

92 Points - Wine Spectator

Exhibits a rich array of savory herb, dried dark berry, mocha, licorice, smoke and cedar flavors, gaining depth and richness and firming nicely on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc.

91 Points - Wine & Spirits

A luscious Napa Valley blend, with perfumed red cherry and fragrant, herb-scented fruit enriched by oak. Barrel age has brought the texture to a generous smoothness, adding walnut tones to contrast the bright fruit. Ready to decant for filet mignon.