2022 Pahlmeyer Merlot Napa Valley

WSI95 DEC94 The 2022 Pahlmeyer Merlot leans heavily on Waters Ranch at the southernmost end of Atlas Peak, perched on a ridgeline with views of the city of Napa and the San Pablo Bay. This Merlot showcases wonderfully classic character, with spiced plums and mocha notes building into a mid-palate of impressive length, power, and fruit density. Bright savoury elements—black truffle and loamy earth—add depth, while the wine maintains excellent length and driving energy. One of the most effortlessly drinkable and charming Merlots from this label, perfect to enjoy now while vintages like 2021 and 2019 continue to evolve.
WA94 Pahlmeyer’s 2022 Proprietary Red is only 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance comprising 4% each Cabernet Franc and Merlot and 3% each Malbec and Petit Verdot. It spent 18 months in 90% new French oak. According to winemaker Katie Vogt, this vintage leans heavily into the Cabernet Sauvignon from Upper Range, as they have misters on every vine. There’s a hint of dried sage on the nose, nicely highlighting notes of cassis, black cherries, vanilla and black olives. In the mouth, this richly concentrated but rather open-knit wine is full-bodied, broad, even expansive, then tightens up a bit and lingers on the mouthwatering finish.
Estate Notes: The 2022 Pahlmeyer Merlot is generous yet structured, a dynamic interplay of intensity and vibrancy. Aromas of brambly blackberry, macerated black cherry, and wild raspberry rise from the glass, underscored by crushed peppercorn, fresh sage, and a hint of forest floor. On the palate, a rich core of dark plum and fresh fig is wrapped in plush, velvety tannins, while savory, earthy notes emerge with time: tobacco leaf, cocoa nib, and plowed earth. The finish is long and lifted, carried by the wine’s natural energy and a lingering touch of violet and warm spice. With its dark fruit core amplified in its youth, this wine will evolve beautifully over the next decade, developing further nuance and refinement. – Katie Vogt, winemaker