2021 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

 

2021 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

The Schlatter family has owned Merryvale Vineyards for about three decades and this property is rich in history.  The iconic winery was the first winery built in Napa after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933.  The European and Bordeaux-inspired wines are the heart of the brand, resulting in rich and luscious Cabernet Sauvignons.  That is certainly the case here with the 2021 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley.

Smaller yields were the result of a second year of drought in Napa Valley, creating more robust flavors and highly concentrated wines.  Overall, the 2021 vintage is highly rated with exceptional wines.  This wine is raisin colored with eggplant streaks.  Juicy blackberry, dried spices, stewed plum and flower bouquet on the nose.  The full bodied mouthfeel is immediately noticeable with solid tannins and balanced flavors of black cherry, tomato leaf, clove, blackberry and freshly sawn cedar plank.  

This wine spent 16 months in new French oak and is comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon (86%), Petit Verdot (12%), and Cabernet Franc (2%).  This is not an "in your face" flavor bomb, but a more refined, reserved, classic feel that would be fun to revisit after cellaring for a decade.  It's quite lovely!

2021 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley label

ABV:  14.5%

Napa Valley, AVA

Winery:  Merryvale Vineyards

Suggested retail price:  $70.00

Drink The Bottles score:  93/100





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