Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot 2022 [375 mL]
(Napa Valley, California) - [JS 94] [VM 91]

About the Winery:
Nestled in the Mayacamas Mountains between St. Helena and Santa Rosa, the picturesque 235 acre estate of Pride Mountain Vineyards sprawls across Spring Mountain at roughly 2,100 feet, six miles up a winding, narrow road above St. Helena.  The winery produces unique wines in contrast to those made in the neighboring valleys. The vineyards are set above the fog line, which enables the grapes to be exposed to California's hot sun from dawn to dusk. As a result, the flavors of these wines tend to be rich with ripe black fruits, "balance, nuance, and complexity." They are made to be approachable at a young age with the capability to age beneficially for 10-15 years. Their first wine was produced in 1991.

Tasting Notes:
Generous would be an understatement in describing the fruit of the 2022 Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot. The opulence and finesse of this wine beautifully showcase mountain fruit at its best. Blackberries dominate the first impression before unfurling into attractive aromas of black cherry and ripe plum, carefully accented by hints of bay and chocolate, with a touch of sage.  The juicy, ripe fruit makes for a mouth-watering first sip, but is kept at heel by its considerable tension, owing to the playful interchange of its balanced acidity and supple tannin structure. It is those traits that linger, providing a long, luxurious finish. It is stunning now and will continue to impress for years to come.