Old Winery Road

Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 1857

9.0

Old Winery Road – Merlot – 2023
Napa Valley AVA – California – USA 🇺🇸

Overview
100% Merlot sourced from Napa Valley and crafted by the Boisset family. Aiming for approachability and versatility, this wine leans into a softer, more accessible expression rather than power-driven structure.

Aromas & Flavors
Soft ripe black cherry and plum lead the profile, followed by hints of vanilla, light oak, and a touch of cocoa. Fruit-forward but balanced with subtle sweetness from the oak integration.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with a smooth, rounded texture. Polished tannins and an easygoing structure make it very approachable, with a pleasant, clean finish.

Food Pairings
Grilled chicken, burgers, pasta with red sauce, meatloaf, or casual BBQ dishes. Also works well as a flexible by-the-glass option.

Verdict
An interesting and versatile Napa Merlot, smooth, fruit-driven, and easy to enjoy. Not overly complex, but well-crafted for casual drinking and broad appeal.

Did You Know?
Merlot thrives in Napa Valley’s varied microclimates, often delivering plush fruit and softer tannins compared to Cabernet Sauvignon, making it one of the most approachable reds from the region.

🍷 Personal Pick
A solid “flex bottle”, easy to pour, easy to pair, and easy to please a mixed crowd without overthinking it. — 2 months ago

Tom and Ted liked this

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