Nose
Milk chocolate, espresso, and dried red fruits on the nose.
Palate
Chocolate covered cherries and cocoa on the palate.
Growing Conditions
From a site situated at 2,200 feet in elevation, our Merlot vineyards on Howell Mountain enjoy the best views of the valley. The vineyard sits on a steep grade, requiring the stressed vines to dig deep into earth. The result is remarkably concentrated fruit with tremendous structure.
Our first vintage, this 2014 Howell Mountain Merlot is a powerful testament to what is possible for one of the great, but often underrated, grapes of the wine world. Cabernet lovers will be floored with the intensity and boldness of this 100% varietal wine. While Merlot is often an afterthought in Napa Valley, this bottle is certainly intentional.
Winemaking
Four-week fermentation in open top.
Aging
65% new French oak barrels for 29 months.
Food Pairing
Filet mignon, rib eye steak.
