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Reserve

2006 Napa Valley Merlot

The 2006 Raymond Reserve Merlot from Napa Valley is a captivating red wine that showcases the region's renowned winemaking prowess. With a medium-bodied structure, this wine presents balanced acidity that elevates its flavor profile, making it both approachable and delightful. The fruit intensity is prominent, featuring luscious notes of dark cherry and blackberry, which are beautifully complemented by subtle hints of spice and vanilla from careful oak aging. The tannins are notably firm yet refined, providing a velvety mouthfeel that enhances its complexity. As a dry wine, it offers a long, satisfying finish that lingers on the palate, making it a wonderful choice for both casual sipping and elegant dining occasions.

Tasting notes:


Black Cherry

Black Cherry

Oak

Oak

Chocolate

Chocolate

Flavor profile:


Acidity Low

Low Pronounced

Body Medium

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Tannin Medium

Low Pronounced

Region:


Napa Valley

Napa gained international acclaim following the Judgement of Paris in 1976, when its wines defeated its French counterparts in a blind tasting. Napa's signature wines are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and various Bordeaux blends, but many other varieties, such as Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc also thrive here. With 16 sub-AVAs and a Mediterranean climate with rich geology, Napa is a winemaker's dream. The winegrowing region runs between the Mayacamas Mountains and Vaca Mountains for 30 miles, from Calistoga to Los Carneros. Napa has a wide array of soil types for such a small region, from volcanic foothills to alluvial valley floors, which help to produce varied and complex wines.

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