Duckhorn Vineyards

Howell Mountain Merlot Blend

9.15 ratings
9.12 pro ratings
Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, California, USA
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Onion, Shallot, Garlic, Pasta, Venison, Tomato-Based, Potato, Pork, Chocolate & Caramel, White Rice, Mushrooms, Beef, Lamb, Chili & Hot Spicy, Salami & Prosciutto, Exotic Spices, Baking Spices, Herbs, Chicken, Pungent Cheese, Turkey, Soft Cheese, Beans & Peas, Hard Cheese, Duck, Blue Cheese
Top Notes For
Brad Jensen

Beautiful old nose of wet forest floor, black fig, sharpie or dry erase marker and cognac or brandy notes on this 35yo birthday wine. Brandy, slightly brown color on a medium body, it needed about an hours worth of air to open up but really revealed itself over time. Palate definitely is over the hill but still shows well with age, with a little acidity and even some light tannin showing up after some time in the glass. Plum for sure, a baked cranberry, tar, fig, some cigar smoke, and a looong, energy filled finish that has just been waiting for the right moment.

Beautiful old nose of wet forest floor, black fig, sharpie or dry erase marker and cognac or brandy notes on this 35yo birthday wine. Brandy, slightly brown color on a medium body, it needed about an hours worth of air to open up but really revealed itself over time. Palate definitely is over the hill but still shows well with age, with a little acidity and even some light tannin showing up after some time in the glass. Plum for sure, a baked cranberry, tar, fig, some cigar smoke, and a looong, energy filled finish that has just been waiting for the right moment.

Sep 22nd, 2025
Rafael E. Garcia

Sommelier, L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon Las Vegas

9.0

Rafael E. had this 10 years ago

Rafael E. had this 10 years ago

May 15th, 2015
Nico J. Snyman

Nico had this 10 years ago

Nico had this 10 years ago

May 15th, 2015
Ronald Wanglin

Ronald had this 10 years ago

Ronald had this 10 years ago

Dec 20th, 2015