Cakebread Cellars 2021 Merlot

From The Winemaker

The diversity of vineyard sites from Suscol Springs Ranch to Rutherford and Calistoga in Napa Valley contribute to the bold and elegant character of our 2021 Merlot. Our unique Suscol Springs site stresses the vines, resulting in concentrated fruit, while each vineyard produces distinct grapes that add complexity. To preserve the fruit's integrity, all lots were hand-harvested at night and fermented in stainless steel tanks. Gentle pumpovers during fermentation extracted color, flavor, and tannins, and the wine completed secondary fermentation in 44% new French oak barrels.

Tasting Notes

This 2021 Merlot from Cakebread Cellars boasts rich aromas of blackberry, black cherry, plum, and mocha, with hints of crushed stone minerality and floral notes. On the palate, the wine is silky and elegant, with concentrated flavors of fresh blackberry and black plum that evolve into subtle notes of toast and oak. The finish is mineral-driven, with bright acidity and refined tannins providing a balanced structure to the wine's full-bodied richness.