Vineyard
Our Merlot grapes are estate grown on the winery’s Spanos Berberian Estate Vineyard in Yountville approximately one mile south of the Yountville Hills. Yountville enjoys the early morning fog and cool growing conditions of the maritime influenced southern Napa Valley, whilst the early receding fog gives us more sunlight and warmer daytime temperatures than the more southerly Carneros region.  Our warm summer daytime temperatures and cool evenings result in grapes with rich fruit flavors and an excellent acid balance.

Vintage Notes

The 2020 growing season was one for the record books. A warm, dry winter, with very low rainfall led into only a brief spell of mild weather and a couple rains during March. However, consistently warm weather, frequently windy conditions and a long hot summer led to two major fire events. The warm, early conditions were almost a blessing in disguise, as the second fire event (the Glass fire complex) had much more devastating consequences for Napa Valley proper, leading to the need to bring in any remaining fruit as quickly as possible before any additional smoke contact could do damage. We were luckier than many, having most of our remaining vineyard locations ready to be picked as soon as crews were able, and the fruit just having entered the ripened stage. Volume was down quite a bit, and some fruit remained unpicked due to smoke damage, but the overall quality of the vintage was high. All in all, exceptional fruit with great richness, intensity and flavors - just not much of it.

Tasting Notes

Our estate merlot opens with attractive black raspberry and dark cherry aromas, framed by a hint of graham cracker.  Tasting it reveals a palate that mirrors the nose, with additional flavors of candied cranberry, under-ripe blackberry, currants, pie crust and nuances of black tea leaves.  Unlike many merlots out there, the finish is long and memorable.  The solid tannins and bright acidity indicate that this will be a long-lived wine.  Best enjoyed 4-8 years from vintage.