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2023 Charles Krug Merlot "Napa Valley"

Winery: Charles Krug

Vintage: 2023

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Napa Valley"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: 88% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon & 3% Malbec

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $31

Cases produced: 3,922

KWG Score: 91.6 (based on 4 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (92.5)

Review date: August 28, 2026

Wine Review: This deep ruby colored Merlot from Charles Krug opens with a red currant and tobacco leaf bouquet with hints of red plum and oak. On the palate, this wine is full bodied with integrated medium plus acidity. The mouthfeel is balanced, smooth, and seamless. The flavor profile is a graphite, red cherry, and cinnamon blend with notes of black pepper and stewed black plum. We also detected hints of oak, dark chocolate, and cranberry. The finish is dry, and its flavors, acidity, and moderate dusty tannins build-up and stick around for quite some time. We would pair this Merlot with Theresa's homemade meatloaf. Enjoy - KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: Our 2023 Merlot opens with layered aromas of raspberry, red cherry, pomegranate, brown sugar, plum, and chocolate-covered cranberry. The palate is supple and silky, echoing cherry and pomegranate with dark chocolate and gooey brownie richness, culminating in a long, refined finish lifted by bright acidity.

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