Duckhorn Vineyards, Atlas Peak, Napa Valley (California) Merlot 2017

 Duckhorn’s Atlas Peak Merlot is an amazingly versatile red wine.  In the same way that some people can just fit comfortably into any situation, this wine is astonishingly adaptable to a wide range of different foods.  With its enticing aromas and lovely plum and ripe berry flavors, this easygoing and unpretentious wine will of course be a good partner for a nice steak but will also embrace relatively lighter fare such as roast chicken or lightly spiced dishes (try it with lamb laced with cumin, paprika and garlic).  The 100% Merlot grapes, which were grown in high elevation vineyards, developed mellow flavors that telegraph subtle herbal flavors as well as ample fruitiness.  Perfect for immediate drinking, this is a Merlot that will develop further over the next few years.