2023 Merlot

"Winemaker Chris Carpenter believes the energy of mountain sunlight, combined with the right balance of Napa soils, creates ideal conditions for Merlot with both depth and structure. A small proportion of Petit Verdot is layered in for savouriness and a tannic backbone, complementing the naturally luscious character of the Merlot fruit... When asked whether he considers his wines more acid-driven or tannin-driven, Carpenter explains that the energy of the wine comes from very fresh acidity, while the chewiness of the tannins (derived from mountain-grown fruit) provides the structure. Acidity, he notes, is a defining feature of mountain wines overall, while tannins vary markedly from site to site. In this vintage, the wine is ultra-concentrated yet remarkably cool-toned, showing a subtle minty freshness alongside ironstone minerality—very much the 'iron fist in a velvet glove' metaphor. Ultra-fine tannins underpin almost unbelievable power, carrying layers of intoxicating fruit richness and Asian spice through a long, commanding, and beautifully balanced finish."
Jonathan Cristaldi
Decanter, June 2026