The 2021 Merlot is a heady, racy wine. Even so, what emerges most is a palpable cool-climate savoriness. Lavender, spice, blue/purplish fruit, menthol and creme de cassis all take shape in the glass. The 2021 is a blend of fruit from sites in Oak Knoll and Carneros. In this edition, the Merlot is a bit lett juicy than in some previous years, but that's a style that works well.

Coming from two sites (Oak Knoll and Carneros), the 2021 Merlot offers a beautifully perfumed, complex, medium to full-bodied style to go with fresher, yet still rich aromas and flavors. Black cherries, mulberries, chocolate, and some floral notes all define the aromatics, and it's balanced, with ripe tannins and a great finish.