Merlot 2022
“Easily one of the best Napa Valley Merlots out there.”- Wine Enthusiast Magazine
A rare variety when we started, we included Merlot in our pioneering plantings in the late 1960s. Ever since then, our belief in this venerable variety has held firm. Focusing on the balance between bright red fruit and dark earth, this wine displays remarkable intensity. Wrapped in a floral perfume and velvety tannins, it is also seductively complex and wonderfully food-friendly.
Floral aromas and earthy undertones of graphite, sage and black tea lead to a palate with notes of dark cherry and black peppercorn fi nishing with hints of clove and star anise.
As the winter rains had arrived early and stopped early, the vineyard soils were already quite dry when the vines began growing in the spring. We responded with early irrigation and the vines thrived throughout a very mild summer. The warm sunny days and cool evenings, refl ecting our unique location in the Oak Knoll District of the Napa Valley, were perfect for ripening the grapes. The weather took a turn in September, with a signifi cant heat spell followed by early rains, but fortunately our most delicate varieties had already been harvested. We are delighted with the character of this vintage, which features the classic Trefethen brightness on the palate.
Pair this wine with decadent foods such as grilled fi sh or steak frites. Winery Chef Chris Kennedy recommends pairing this wine with approachable foods such as French fries with Parmesan cheese or cheese curds.
