Reviews & Ratings

2010 Chappellet Merlot "Napa Valley"

Winery: Chappellet

Vintage: 2010

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Napa Valley"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: 89% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon & 2% Petit Verdot

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $40

Cases produced: 1,003

KWG Score: 87.5 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good (88)

Review date: August 23, 2013

Wine Review: This very deep purple colored Napa Merlot opens with a mild black cherry and blackberry bouquet with hints of oak and pepper. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced, and smooth. The flavor profile is a pleasant mild black cherry with hints of black currant and very light oak. The finish is dry and fades away nicely. The panel felt this Merlot is food friendly and would suggest pairing it with Hungarian goulash. Enjoy - KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: This is a lush, hedonistic Merlot that showcases the trademark concentration of Pritchard Hill. The nose displays abundant sweet cherry and plum, underscored by inviting spice notes of clove, vanilla and red licorice. Background aromas of chocolate and roasted coffee, as well as subtle hints of dried herbs and cedar, add richness and complexity. The ripe plum and cherry flavors continue on the palate, where they are surrounded by a nice layer of spicy oak. The texture is round and fleshy, with a supple, mouthcoating richness. Soft tannins add just enough structure to support the plush mouthfeel and long flavorful finish.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Chappellet 2010 Merlot.