93pts James Suckling

A well-rounded, velvety and flavorful merlot with dark cherries, grilled bell peppers and some baking spices. Supple with a caressing texture to the medium body and melty tannins. Polished and mellow.

93pts Wilfred Wong 

The 2021 Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot is a standup and palate-lasting wine. Bring this wine to a lamb BBQ and pair its aromas and flavors with fragrant spices, chalky notes, tart nectarines, and oaky notes.

92pts Wine Enthusiast

Fresh mixed herbs, fresh plums and layers of well-integrated baking spices make this a pleasing and versatile Merlot from one of the producers who helped make the variety iconic in Napa Valley. Fine tannins coat the mouth while remaining silky through a long finish.

91pts Wine Spectator

Tightly focused but handsomely structured, with appealing cherry and red currant flavors accented by cedar and dried herbs. Drink now through 2031.

Winemaker Notes

Embodying the alluring beauty of great Napa Valley Merlot, this wine reveals vibrant aromas of red currant, ripe plum, black raspberry, cherry and sweet baking spices, with hints of tea leaves and cocoa. The palate is rich and luxurious, with silky tannins and flavors of ripe red berries, pie crust and fig compote gliding to a bright, elegant finish. 

About the Wine

Inspired after a visit to Bordeaux, Dan Duckhorn produced the first vintage of Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot in 1978. Highlighting Estate vineyards and top sites, our renown Merlot reflects the diversity of the valley’s many appellations. Blending with Cabernet Sauvignon adds notable depth and structure, as well as signature flavors of black cherry, plum and spice.

Blend: 80% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot