Let me start by stating that I don’t drink very much Merlot so my perspective is somewhat limited. Had a lot of bad merlot in years past and thus I’ve mostly avoided it since. I am, however, a fan of Chappellet Winery (Napa ) which, as most fans of Napa cabernet know, makes consistently excellent cabernet along with other varietals. So, when I recently had a chance to try the 2009 Chappellet Merlot, I had reason to hope that it might re-establish my appreciation for the merlot varietal. And so it did.
This 2009 Merlot is a smooth, delicious red wine. It has nice aromas of ripe plums and baking spices. A dense, rich mouth feel with some good tannic structure (presumably from the cabernet added to the blend), but very smooth with no harsh edges. Prominent fruit flavors of blackberry and a hint of cherry with some toasted oak essence. Nice lingering aftertaste with more of the spice notes returning.