Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley (California) Merlot 2009

It would be safe to say Duckhorn is the master of Merlot, at least in California. From its inception Duckhorn has advanced the cause of Merlot, firmly believing the most noble red grape of the Right Bank of Bordeaux deserves every bit as much respect, even awe, as the revered Cabernet Sauvignon of the Left Bank. The proof, as always, is in the bottle and the Stout Vineyard Merlot from Duckhorn is indeed awe inspiring. Powerful and dense, this vintage is built to last, rich and firmly structured, showing dark fruit aromas with a savory note and plenty of spicy new-oak influence. This is a wine to wait on for at least another five to seven years. This is one California Merlot that would make the vignerons of Saint-Emilion extremely proud.