2016 Kongsgaard Merlot

Kongsgaard's 2016 Merlot opens with a burst of strong, savory inflections that make a strong statement. Chocolate, grilled herbs, smoke, iron, game and incense all lend a distinctly feral quality to this super-expressive Atlas Peak Merlot. On the palate, the 2016 offers plenty of Napa Valley fruit intensity, but in a restrained, mineral-drenched style that is hugely appealing. Merlot is the hidden gem in this range, but it is well worth the effort of tracking down. The Merlot is a small bottling made from fruit that is picked on the later side, and therefore can't be used in the co-fermentation of Fimasaurus, Kongsgaard's Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot blend.