2022 Rombauer Merlot Napa Valley California

The 2022 Rombauer Merlot is a Napa Valley Merlot sourced largely from the Napa side of Carneros, where the cool influence of San Pablo Bay allows the grapes to ripen gradually while retaining natural acidity. Rombauer has focused its Merlot sourcing in this area since 2014, specifically seeking the combination of cool climate and clay-rich soils that helps produce expressive fruit with both richness and freshness. The 2022 blend is 81% Merlot, 12% Petit Verdot and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the smaller portions of Bordeaux varieties adding structure and depth to the Merlot's naturally plush character.

The wine opens with red plum, dried cranberry and black cherry, with hints of mint and savory spice. On the palate, blackberry and warm pie crust lead into a rich, silky texture, while bright acidity and fine tannins keep the wine balanced through the long finish. A portion of the wine was barrel fermented before being aged for 17 months in French oak, 35% new, giving the wine additional layers of spice and toast without overwhelming the fruit. The 2022 vintage was a warm one in Napa, but Carneros' proximity to San Pablo Bay helped moderate temperatures and allowed phenolic and sugar ripeness to develop together.