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Reserve

2008 Napa Valley Merlot

The Rutherford Hill Reserve Merlot from the Napa Valley vintage of 2008 is a stunning expression of this renowned varietal. Exhibiting a deep ruby color, this full-bodied red wine captivates the senses with its generous fruit intensity, featuring prominent notes of ripe blackcurrant and dark cherry that harmoniously intertwine with subtle hints of cocoa and spice. The high acidity gives it a refreshing liveliness, while the tannins are notably firm, providing a solid structure that promises aging potential. As a dry wine, it maintains a perfect balance, making it a delightful choice for pairing with hearty dishes or savoring on its own. This impressive Merlot truly showcases the exceptional quality of Napa Valley's terroir and winemaking expertise.

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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