2016 Robert Foley Merlot Napa Valley

Deep and Dark in color, this 100% Merlot combines the structure of Howell Mountain fruit with the softness of the lower elevation Calistoga vineyard. A gush of cherry candy flavors floods the mid palate with a deliciously rich texture. Gentle tannins coat the mouth and resolve with well-balanced acidity in the long mouthwatering finish. This is a Merlot for Cabernet lovers. I produced my first commercial Merlot in the 1976 vintage when it was about as well-known as Charbono is today. After several years of trying to convince folks to give it a try, its popularity grew and eventually snowballed. Of course, Bordeaux producers have worked with this grape variety for many years and it is the noble variety of the Cabernet family on the right bank of that region. Like its Cabernet cousin, Merlot grown in well-drained soils can develop profound expression and firm structure.