2009 Duckhorn Napa Valley Merlot

Sourced from a combination of lots from Duckhorn's estate vineyards and top growers in the Napa Valley, the 2009 Merlot exhibits red berry, cherry, and plum fruit aromas and flavors, with hints of savory herbs and sweet baking spices. The 2009 vintage is a standout for Merlot due to the even growing season and low yields of intensely concentrated fruit. 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc were incorporated into the final cuvée, adding structure and aromatic complexity to balance and support the lush Merlot fruit. The wine was aged for fifteen months in 25% new French oak (75% once-used), promoting the development of a supple texture, creamy mouth feel, and complex layering of red berry and spice elements. Suave tannins round out the finish.

91 points Wine Enthusiast

 A lovely Merlot, this is pure, vibrant and elegant. It has classic cherry, red-currant and cedar flavors, and while there’s a sweetness at the core, the finish is thoroughly dry. Wonderful to drink now with steak or lamb.   (10/2012)

91 points Wine Spectator

 Sleek and well-focused, offering appealing red currant and tomato leaf aromas, with complex cherry, cedar and espresso notes. Tannins slide in on the finish. Best from 2015 through 2018.  (11/2012)

90 points Wine & Spirits

 A dense and potently extracted style of merlot, this has smoky black cherry flavors that edge toward creosote and tar. It also has the warmth of the sun on rocky soils, like those at Duckhorn’s Rector Creek Vineyard, a relatively cool site that provides the core of this blend. It softens with air, as it will in the company of a steak.   (6/2010)