Tasting note

This is a quite lifted, vibrant and intense merlot - a specialty of Sterling for years now. Expect lovely lifted raspberry-currant fruit, oak spice, cedar and some greenness, with subtle vanillin overlay on the nose. It's quite full bodied, yet edgy and vibrant, with a sense of graphite minerality. Fairly tannic, Very good to excellent length. Not as cushy as most Calif merlots, and that's a good thing. Best 2016 to 2020+. Score - 90. (David Lawrason, winealign.com, July 17, 2015)

The rich, distinctive character of Napa Valley abounds in our Merlot. Dark raspberry-truffle aromas take the lead, followed by glints of hibiscus and clove. Velvety smooth, the palate has a juicy pomegranate–blueberry character wrapped in sweet oak and baking spices. The wine has a robust texture and complex structure that make it a perfect match for roasted meats, fall risottos or hearty pastas.