Pope Valley Winery Merlot Reserve Napa Valley 2022

“Sourced from Eakle Ranch in Pope Valley, nestled against the Vaca Mountain Range on its eastern flank, this cooler site stands out from the rest of Pope Valley. A very spicy and aromatic Merlot, it offers notes of oregano, rosemary, spiced plums, violets, and blueberry skin. Medium to full-bodied, it presents layers of spicy Mexican mocha, a hint of sage and dried mint, and a brightness to the fruit character that carries through to the long finish. This is a Merlot with density and weight, showing excellent tension and depth—definitely not one to be mistaken for a soft, mid-palate wine.”

“Ripe cherries are joined on the nose by scents of rosemary sprigs and bay leaves in the 2022 Merlot Reserve. It's full-bodied, round and supple, with an underpinning of resiny herbs that gives a sense of structure to the almost jammy mix of cherries and berries.”

“Bright cherries, red plums, tobacco, and sappy floral notes intermixed with spicy cedar emerge from the 2022 Merlot Reserve. Medium-bodied on the palate, it shows balance and elegance, with a pure, focused personality. It will be best enjoyed over the next 3-5 years.”