Wines that pay homage to their stylistic heritage through labeling don’t often hit the mark as squarely as this Merlot driven blend. You might mistake this for cousin of Cheval Blanc in a blind tasting, though it’s certainly more approachable in its youth. I love it right now for rounded Merlot fruit, soft spice, focused acidity and a long seamlessly integrated finish, and I love it even more for being a relative bargain. A Platinum Award winner at the 2020 Sommelier Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition.
Palazzo, Napa Valley (California) 2016
By Rich Cook