Decoy, California (United States) Merlot 2019

 In 1985, nine years after creating Duckhorn Winery in Napa Valley, founders Dan and Margaret Duckhorn decided to create the Decoy label for “attractively priced” wines.  It consists primarily of Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon and a dash of Cabernet Franc.  Sixty per cent of the grapes come from Sonoma County, 32 per cent from Central Coast and eight per cent from Mendocino County, places where the price per ton of grape can be less expensive than those from Napa Valley.  It is aged 12 months in 100 per cent French oak, 35 percent new.  It offers a dark ruby color, rich blackberry, black cherry, vanilla, cassis, tobacco aromas and flavors ripe and smooth in the mouth are balanced with vibrant acidity and polished tannins, perfect for a grilled sirloin.