Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot Three Palms Vineyard 2018

Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot Three Palms Vineyard 2018

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Duckhorn's 2018 Three Palms Vineyard Merlot: A Napa Valley Masterpiece

A Legacy of Estate Excellence

Duckhorn Vineyards' 2018 Napa Valley Merlot, sourced entirely from the prestigious Three Palms Vineyard, embodies the winery's dedication to crafting exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of Napa Valley. Inspired by Bordeaux's renowned Merlots, Dan Duckhorn established the winery in 1978, and this 2018 vintage upholds that commitment with its captivating depth and complexity.

Three Palms Vineyard: Where Merlot Thrives

The Three Palms Vineyard, named for its iconic palm trees, boasts warm soils that encourage deep root growth in the vines. This, combined with meticulous viticulture practices, results in intensely flavoured grapes that translate beautifully into the final wine. The 2018 vintage showcases this perfectly, offering a blend of 89% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 0.5% Petit Verdot, and 0.5% Malbec.

Aromas and Flavours to Captivate

Upon swirling the glass, enticing aromas of huckleberry, black cherry, chocolate, and fig emerge, followed by subtle hints of graphite, graham cracker, bay leaf, and sage. These intriguing aromas set the stage for a truly captivating tasting experience.

A Luxurious and Balanced Expression

On the palate, the 2018 Three Palms Vineyard Merlot reveals its full-bodied character. Velvety tannins provide a smooth and luxurious texture, while a symphony of flavours unfolds. Intense black cherry and voluptuous fruit mingle with earthy undertones and the signature minerality of the Three Palms terroir. This delightful interplay culminates in a rich and remarkably long finish, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

Ideal Growing Conditions, Meticulous Winemaking

The 2018 growing season in Napa Valley provided near-perfect conditions for crafting exceptional wines. Mild spring and summer weather, along with the absence of extreme heat events, allowed the grapes to mature slowly and evenly, achieving optimal ripeness while retaining vibrant acidity. This resulted in a slightly larger harvest of fully developed grapes with balanced sugar levels. The meticulous winemaking process, including 18 months of ageing in 100% French oak (75% new, 25% neutral), further enhances the complexity and structure of this acclaimed Merlot.

Technical Specifications:

  • Vintage: 2018
  • Varietal: Merlot (dominant), with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec
  • Appellation: Napa Valley
  • Vineyard Designation: Three Palms Vineyard
  • Acidity: 0.55 g/100 ml
  • pH: 3.73
  • Ageing: 100% French Oak (75% New, 25% Neutral), 18 months
  • Alcohol: 14.5%

A Celebration of Napa Valley Merlot

Duckhorn Vineyards' 2018 Three Palms Vineyard Merlot is a testament to the winery's unwavering commitment to quality and a celebration of Napa Valley's exceptional terroir. This exquisite wine, lauded by critics and cherished by wine enthusiasts, is a must-try for those seeking a truly memorable Merlot experience.

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