2023 Decoy Merlot, Sonoma County California

The 2023 Decoy Merlot is a Merlot-led California red made with 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Merlot provides the wine’s generous fruit and supple character, while the Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure and depth. The wine draws primarily from Sonoma County, with additional fruit from other California growing regions, reflecting Decoy’s approach of bringing together fruit from different sites to create a consistent, approachable expression of Merlot. The 2023 growing season was marked by abundant winter rainfall, a cool spring and a long, gradual ripening period, allowing the fruit to develop ripe flavors while maintaining freshness.

On the nose and palate, the wine shows black cherry, boysenberry and ripe dark fruit, layered with hints of leather, black olive, peppercorn and baking spice. Its texture is generous and smooth, with fresh acidity and silky tannins giving the fruit definition without making the wine feel heavy. The wine was aged for 16 months in French oak, 40% new and 60% neutral, adding subtle toast and spice while allowing the Merlot fruit to remain at the center of the profile