2006 Plumpjack Merlot Napa Valley

The 2006 Merlot was good, but not up to the standards of the other Plumpjack wines. A blend of 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, it possesses a dense plum/purple color as well as notions of sweet black cherries intermixed with earth, wood, and spice. The finish reveals some austere tannins. It should drink well for 5-7 years. These are consistently brilliant wines thanks to the efforts of winemaker Tony Biagia. The 2007 offerings reflect what a great site this 40-acre vineyard planted in the tenderloin of Oakville truly is. Older readers may remember the superb Villa Mt. Eden Cabernet Sauvignons made by Nils Venge (also the consulting winemaker at Plumpjack) in the mid and late seventies, wines that are still profound today. Tel. (707) 945-1220; Fax (707) 944-0744