2018 Robert Foley Merlot, Napa Valley California

The 2018 Robert Foley Merlot is a 100% Clone 3 Merlot built from fruit grown in two distinct Napa Valley locations: Dutch Henry Canyon in Calistoga and Robert Foley's property on Howell Mountain. Clone 3 is Bob Foley's preferred Merlot clone, selected for its highly expressive character and naturally rich, round profile. Robert Foley began making wine in Napa Valley in 1977, working early in his career with Joe Heitz and André Tchelistcheff before becoming the founding winemaker at Markham Vineyards and later Pride Mountain Vineyards. He established Robert Foley Vineyards on Howell Mountain in 1998, where his wines have become known for their depth, longevity and meticulous craftsmanship.

The wine opens with an alluring perfume of black currant, cassis, ripe cherry, dark chocolate and spice, followed by layers of black fruit, loamy earth, cedar, liquorice and subtle roasted-herb character. Stainless-steel fermentation is followed by 18 months in a combination of new French oak and neutral barrels, with the oak carefully selected to complement rather than overwhelm the fruit. The palate is rich and full, with velvety, cocoa-like tannins, bright acidity and exceptional length. Decanter awarded the wine 98 points and described its finish as exceptionally long, while Jeb Dunnuck gave it 93 points and noted a drinking window extending through 2036.