Refined and polished yet deeply structured, with expressive red currant, dried herbs and hints of stony minerality that build tension and richness toward big but polished tannins. Drink now through 2030. 1,038 cases made.??–TF??Region: California / Napa / Howell Mountain Select to Add

La Jota's 2019 Merlot Howell Mountain includes 11% Petit Verdot and 7% Tannat. It boasts plummy black cherries and hints of herbs on the nose, while the palate is medium to full-bodied and silky but not that deep or rich. Supple and charming yet not unstructured, this mouthwatering Merlot may be enjoyed on the young side, but it should drink well through at least 2030.

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

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.

Powerfully structured, with crackling acidity backing the intense red fruit flavors, layered with minerality. Savory flourishes show on the finish. Best from 2021 through 2025. 1,200 cases made.??–KM??Region: California / Napa / Howell Mountain Select to Add