Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. It is recommended to decant it for half an hour.

Initially founded in 1933, over the decades the Merryvale winery has seen numerous famous people as partners, consultants, or owners: initially Peter and Robert Mondavi and in the 1980s Bill Harlan. Jack Schlatter acquired the company, now run by his son René, in 1994. The historic building is located south of the town of Saint Helena, which is the heart of Napa Valley. The vineyards are located east of Sant'Elena at about 280 meters above sea level. In 1997 about 10 hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot were planted.

The Cabernet grapes are carefully sourced from the Stagecoach, Hardman Stanton, and Greenwood vineyards and fermented separately. The blend is then aged in French oak barrels for 22 months before being bottled.

The result is an expressive and elegant wine, fresh and vibrant that on the nose shows hints of berries and spices. In the mouth, it has all the classic characteristics of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with a tasty concentration of seductive black fruits and subtle aromas of toasted and exotic spices. It has mature and silky tannins. It is harmonious and has excellent length. It pairs very well with beef, especially brisket.