Composed of 89.5% Merlot, 5.5% Tannat and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2018 Merlot Howell Mountain was aged for 22 months in oak, 74% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it opens with earthy notes of truffles, tilled soil and mossy tree bark with a core of warm cassis, blackberry preserves and fresh plums. Medium to full-bodied, firm and grainy with fantastic freshness and loads of crunchy black fruit flavor layers, it finishes on a lingering mineral note. 970 cases were made.

Refined, rich and powerfully structured flavors of cherry, currant and dried raspberry are tensile, supported by firm acidity and tannins. Ends with a minerally flourish on the firm finish, with notes of savory herbs. Best from 2022 through 2027. 970 cases made.??–KM??Region: California / Napa / Howell Mountain Select to Add