94pts James Suckling

This is such a lovely wine, with aromas of soft black and blue fruit, herbs, spices and plum skin. The palate is fine, with mouthwatering tannins and bright, vibrant acidity. A very well-balanced and refined merlot. Drink or hold.

93pts Wilfred Wong

The 2023 Duckhorn Vineyards NAPA VALLEY MERLOT — Deep ruby in color; attractive kitchen pantry spices gracefully rise from the glass; medium to full bodied, active on the palate with beautifully ripened tannins lending structure and polish; crushed berry flavors are nicely framed by well-integrated oak and admirable balance; bright, lively finish. This wine delivers both richness and freshness, showing the generosity of Merlot while maintaining poise and energy. Enjoy this with a slow-braised Korean-inspired short rib, where the wine’s ripe fruit, spice, and polished tannins beautifully complement the dish's savory richness.

Winemaker Notes

A true expression of Napa Valley Merlot, this wine opens with vibrant aromas of red currant, raspberry, black plum, and baking spices, accented by notes of rhubarb crumble, cardamom, and milk chocolate. The palate is silky and refined, with fine-grained tannins carrying layers of plum, cherry, and cocoa powder. A bright, elegant finish highlights the wine’s balance and graceful structure.

Blend: 78% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Franc

Winery Notes

Founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has been crafting classic Napa Valley wines for nearly 40 years. This winemaking tradition has grown to include seven meticulously farmed Estate vineyards, located throughout the various microclimates of the Napa Valley. Focused on quality and consistency, these Estate vineyards are an essential element in making wines of distinction. Pioneering and perfecting Merlot as a premium varietal, Duckhorn Vineyards now makes several elegant Merlot and distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon bottlings that showcase its premium vineyard sites. Duckhorn Vineyards has been named one of the “Top 100 Wineries” in the world eight times by Wine & Spirits, and the 2014 Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot Three Palms Vineyard was named the “2017 Wine of the Year,” topping Wine Spectator’s annual list of the world’s “Top 100 Wines.”