2020 Merlot, Napa Valley

2020 was a challenging but ultimately one of the most rewarding vintages for us. One of the hottest vintages on record with multiple heatwaves well over 100 degrees, vintage 2020 was also accompanied by exceptionally low rainfall: 50-60%below average. Despite the heat and drought, our vines were well prepared for the stress. Due to low rainfall in 2020, the vines prepared themselves for drought by producing less leaves, which requires less water. The heat and drought produced exceptionally low yields but with excellent quality – great acid and freshness in white wines, and beautiful concentration and color in the reds.

Our Merlot grows both in our coolerAmerican Canyon and Carneros vineyards and in our warmer Yountville vineyard. We blendedMerlot from all three vineyards to create a balanced, complex wine that combines the richness and depth from the warmer climates and perfume and bright fruitiness from the cooler climates. We farm all of our certified organic vineyards naturally, using the principles of regenerative agriculture.