Dario Sattui’s “other project” at the northern end of Napa Valley seems to have a strategy of building their wines for both early approachability and cellaring potential. The winemaking team led by Peter Velleno and Brooks Painter continues to adhere to that strategy, often releasing their non-Pinot Noir red wines well after their neighbors. This 2018 Merlot is richly styled, with deep, ripe blackberry and black cherry on a structured backbone of tannins and acidity. Even though it has a few years under its belt already, it needs a little more time to fully integrate, and it’s got a long life ahead. Contains 1% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Castello di Amorosa, Napa Valley (California) Merlot 2018
By Rich Cook