Duckhorn is celebrating its 50th year in business. Dan and Margaret Duckhorn founded what would become a powerhouse brand that is one of the top selling wines in America. But beyond the celebration and hype, one thing has been quietly, steadfastly true; the Duckhorn commitment to Merlot. When other wineries were ripping out Merlot to plant either Syrah or Cabernet, Duckhorn staunchly stood by this grape that has been much maligned over the decades here in the U.S. Merlot has its own expressive quality, and it shines when Duckhorn gets a hold of it. This 2023 offers lively blueberry, blackberry and plum notes commingled with vanilla and slightly toasted oak, a delicate tannic structure, mild acidity, and something more alluring — it’s simply pleasant to drink. There are back notes of violet flowers, Loganberry, rhubarb and light cocoa powder, which are more pronounced the following day. Comprised of predominantly Merlot, there is 19% Cabernet Sauvignon and smaller amounts of Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Aged for 15 months in all French oak barrels, just 40% of which were new, this is what Merlot is supposed to be. Grabbing a bottle of this off any shelf, is never a wrong decision. ORIGIN: Napa Valley (Carneros, Calistoga, St. Helena, Yountville). ALCOHOL: 14.5%.
