DUCKHORN MERLOT NAPA 2022 750 ML

The 2022 Duckhorn Napa Valley Merlot is a medium-to-full-bodied wine with a rich and velvety texture, featuring aromas and flavors of ripe plum, black cherry, and red currant, often with notes of spice, cocoa, and cedar. It is a blend of Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, aged in French oak, and has balanced acidity with polished tannins leading to a long, lingering finish.

Flavor profile and aroma

1. Aromas: Floral notes, dark red berries, red currant, ripe plum, black raspberry, sweet spices, and hints of sandalwood, cocoa, and tea leaves.
2. Flavors: A rich palate of ripe red berries, plum, and black cherry cola, complemented by notes of pie crust, fig, and spices like clove and baking spice.
3. Finish: A long, supple, and elegant finish with polished, velvety tannins.

Winemaking and structure

1. Blend: The blend is primarily Merlot, with 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc.
2. Aging: It was aged for 15 months in 100% French oak barrels, with a mix of new and neutral barrels.
3. Structure: The wine has a balanced structure with lively acidity and supple tannins, creating a harmonious and complex profile

pairings

1. Grilled steak and red meats: The wine's integrated tannins complement rich, fatty cuts of meat like filet mignon, grilled steaks, and beef brisket.
2. Lamb: Try it with roasted or grilled lamb, especially if it's prepared with herbs like rosemary.
3. Pork: The wine's rich fruit flavors are a fantastic match for roasted pork loin, grilled pork chops, or barbecued ribs. Duckhorn Vineyards even suggests a fig and ham flatbread pairing on their blog.
4. Poultry: Enjoy this merlot with roast chicken or turkey.
5. Mushroom risotto: The wine's earthy notes are a perfect partner for a rich, wild mushroom and truffle risotto.
6. Tomato-based pasta: The wine's acidity stands up nicely to tomato sauces in dishes like lasagna bolognese or spaghetti and meatballs.
7. Roasted vegetables: The rich fruit flavor complements roasted vegetables, such as brussels sprouts and butternut squash.
8. Cheese: Pair with a charcuterie board that includes aged cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and parmesan, as well as softer options like brie.
9. Marinades: For grilled or roasted dishes, consider using marinades with tart fruit flavors, like pomegranate, or herbs like rosemary and thyme, which will echo flavors in the wine.
10. Red wine reductions: The wine itself can be used to create sauces for dishes, adding depth and flavor.
11. Herbs: The wine's subtle herbal characteristics pair well with dishes that also feature herbs like sage and mint.
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