2013 Howell Mountain Merlot Bancroft Ranch

One of Napa’s finest Merlots is the 2013 Merlot Bancroft Ranch from Howell Mountain. The blend of 82% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc tips the scales at a lofty 15.2% alcohol. The wine was aged in nearly 50% new French oak for 16 to 18 months. A blockbuster Merlot with a dense purple color, a big sweet kiss of mocha, coffee bean, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit, it is rich and opulent, with a sumptuous texture, terrific purity, and moderately high tannins. Drink this big, savory, exuberant and mouthfilling Merlot over the next 12-15 years.