2018 PlumpJack Merlot Napa Valley

JD95 Incorporating 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec, the 2018 Merlot sports a dense purple hue as well as a killer nose of cassis, black cherries, spring flowers, tobacco, spice, and even a hint of menthol. Rich and medium to full-bodied, it has a seamless, elegant texture, flawless balance, and a great finish. This is pure class and one heck of a great Merlot as well as a value. Enjoy bottles any time over the coming 7-8 years, if not upwards of a decade or more.
WSI94+ A velvety, plush mouthfeel, rich round berry flavors and notes of mocha, chocolate and black cassis intermingle. Stunning!
VIN93 The 2018 Merlot is an attractive wine, but it also a bit stern in the early going, with tannins that are surprisingly forbidding. It will be interesting to see if those tannins soften over time, as there is terrific purity in the black cherry, chocolate and spice flavors.
Estate Notes: The 2018 vintage has a beautiful and complex nose – black cherry, boysenberry jam, plum, and fresh cut flowers come through first, then cardamom, nutmeg, and a touch of cocoa and vanilla enter giving the nose depth and intrigue. The palate too has great depth and complexity – flavors of red cherries, muddled berries, and dried herbs, with a creamy texture and silky tannin complimented by a fresh, vibrant acidity. 94% merlot, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec.