Luna Vineyards Merlot 2004
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Winemaker Notes
This is a wine that will be enjoyable for its vibrancy, for the next two to four years. Over the next decade, it should evolve to become more defined and concentrated.
"Bold aromas of blackberry and smoky oak open to plush cassis and spice flavors that take on depth and richness toward the long finish. Best from 2009 through 2012."
Wine Spectator
91 Points
"Good deep ruby-red. Blackberry, minerals and lead pencil on the nose. Juicy, spicy and penetrating, with dominant flavors of blackberry jam and minerals. The firm tannins are almost surprisingly smooth and evolved. A good 30% of this juice is from Howell Mountain, the rest from vineyards in Napa and Carneros."
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Barrel Sample: 91-93 Points
Professional Ratings
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As Napa Valley’s third most planted grape, Napa Valley Merlot shows time and time again its potential to produce exceptional results. Napa’s vaunted combination of climate, soil and the human factor of winemaking expertise lead to big, ripe, cellar-worthy and world-class versions.
Whether made by itself in single varietal bottlings or as an important role in Bordeaux Blends, Merlot continues a prominent role in this famous region. While Cabernet typically takes the lead role, Merlot’s contribution—even at 10% to 20% or so—is significant indeed. Often described as “the flesh on Cabernet’s bones,” Merlot lends a soft, round and plush character that beautifully complements Cabernet’s linear, full-throttle structure. Its flavors of plums plus subtle herbs and mint also dovetail nicely with Cabernet’s blackberry and cassis.