Reviews & Ratings

2016 La Jota Merlot "Howell Mountain"

Winery: La Jota

Vintage: 2016

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Howell Mountain"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: 90% Merlot, 5.5% Petit Verdot & 4.5% Tannat

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Howell Mountain

State or country: CA

Price: $85

Cases produced: 1,634

KWG Score: 95.2 (based on 5 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (90)

Review date: March 6, 2020

Wine Review: This opaque and midnight purple colored Merlot from La Jota opens with a spicy boysenberry bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, slightly acidic and juicy. The flavor profile is plum with notes of cinnamon, spice and a hint of red cherry. While this wine lacked complexity, the Panel found it to be very tasty. The finish is dry and its tannins fade away nicely. The Panel noted a touch of heat peaking through as well, however it was not an issue. The Panel suggested pairing this Merlot with a grilled pork chop. Enjoy – KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: The 2016 La Jota Merlot encompasses all that is Mountain Merlot with a structure to relish. Notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and toast follow ripe blackberry, minerality, and weight on the palate.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell La Jota 2016 Merlot.