2018 Marilyn Merlot Napa Valley Merlot

Winemakers Notes: The color is immediately captivating in this rich deep ruby hued 2018 Merlot. There is good intensity in the nose with well integrated aromas that hint of ripe blackberries, orange zest, cocoa powder, and hints of mint/menthol, and baking spices. On the palate there are added notes of toasted oak, integrated with concentrated strawberry and bright plums. This wine has more than ample body and structure for a Napa Merlot, but still maintains a rich balance ending with a long enjoyable finish. Vineyards: This year the final blend is a mix of Merlot from four different vineyards, primarily from the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVA’s, which has added to the complexity of the finished wine. The Vintage: Another very even vintage, with relatively mild temperatures and only a few heat spikes, which allowed for nice hang time translating into wonderful maturity of fruit. The Photo: Milton Greene took this image of Marilyn Monroe in 1955 while she was living with the Greene family for a year in New York. It was during this time that Milton, and Marilyn sued 20th Century Fox to release Marilyn from what they felt was a terrible contract. They won!