I don’t get to drink a lot of CA wines; this was a treat. Merlot has a bad name, but when done right, it’s no wonder why it’s a primary varietal of most Bordeaux. I wash CA would push blended wines further.
Last night we drank a wonderful expression of Merlot;
1993 Stags Leap Napa Merlot. It was really dark in the glass like it could be 2003 vintage. Ripe, perfumed with tobacco and port-like flavors. Hints of eucalyptus, spice, and dark fruit still showing well. This bottle can go another 10+ years without question. The finish was medium length with lightly chalky tannins.
93 points.
