Reviews & Ratings
2023 St. Francis Winery Merlot "Appellation Collection"
Winery: St. Francis Winery
Vintage: 2023
Wine Name/Vineyard: "Appellation Collection"
Wine Category: Merlot
Grape blend: 100% Merlot
Bottle size: 750 ml
Region: Sonoma Valley
State or country: CA
Price: $45
Cases produced: 255
KWG Score: 90 (based on 3 reviews)
Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (90)
Review date: August 17, 2026
Wine Review: This opaque and dark ruby colored Merlot from St. Francis opens with a blackberry and black cherry bouquet with hints of cedar and violets. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with integrated medium plus acidity. The mouthfeel is balanced, round, seamless, and a bit zesty. The flavor profile is a blackberry and stony minerality blend with notes of acai berry and tobacco. I also detected hints of black tea, dried herbs, and black cherry. The finish is dry, and its flavors, acidity, and very fine tannins drift away nicely. I would pair this Merlot with your favorite grilled burger recipe this summer. Enjoy - Ken
Winemaker Notes: A classic, flavorful Merlot, this wine features aromas of savory spices, crushed dark berries, and plum. Structure and tannins complement layered flavors of cherry preserves, Baker's chocolate, and a hint of grilled fennel before the wine finishes with a lift of quenching acidity.
