50 Harvests Meritage Red Napa Valley 2015

The Data

Country USA

Appellation Napa Valley

Varietal Red Blend

Retail Price $60

ABV 14.8%

Score 4 Stars/92 points

In the Glass

Appearance

Brilliant, deep ruby color.

Aromatics

The aromatics are very intense offering scents of red and black cherry and five spice with supporting notes of boysenberry, cassis, slate, and red currant.

Flavor

The palate confirms the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of black fruits, dried herbs, raspberry, and mineral. The finish is long and lingering with supple yet dry tannins.

Intensity & Texture

Full-bodied and nicely balanced with a opulent texture.

Cool Factor

We absolutely love a great Meritage blend and sadly, they often fail to excite us. The 50 Harvests Red Meritage is a true classic with Napa fruit and the heart of a great Bordeaux red.

Value Grade

This wine is not inexpensive for sure but it's still a great value. This is a wine for celebrated occasion being complex and bold. Fewer than 200 cases of this wine were made.

Analysis

This beautiful red Meritage is made with a classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 76%, Cabernet Franc 12%, and Merlot 12%. We love the balance (loads of bright acidity) and the complex layers offered in this Napa Valley tribute to Bordeaux. We love that this wine was not rushed spending sufficient time in wood and then in bottle before its release. This 2015 Meritage, their fifth release, is ready to drink now but it's ideal structure signals a long future in the cellar as well. This wine is made in small quantities so get it while it lasts.

How to Enjoy

Serve at cellar temperature, ideally decanted and rested for an hour before service. This wine grows in depth, richness, and aromatics with moderate aeration. Serve with roasted meats, risotto made with red wine, or grilled lamb.