PlumpJack Winery PlumpJack Merlot 2022 750ml

Coming from two sites (Oak Knoll and Carneros), the 2021 Merlot offers a beautifully perfumed, complex, medium to full-bodied style to go with fresher, yet still rich aromas and flavors. Black cherries, mulberries, chocolate, and some floral notes all define the aromatics, and it's balanced, with ripe tannins and a great finish.

Coming from two sites (Oak Knoll and Carneros), the 2021 Merlot offers a beautifully perfumed, complex, medium to full-bodied style to go with fresher, yet still rich aromas and flavors. Black cherries, mulberries, chocolate, and some floral notes all define the aromatics, and it's balanced, with ripe tannins and a great finish. (Jeb Dunnuck)

The 2021 Merlot is a heady, racy wine. Even so, what emerges most is a palpable cool-climate savoriness. Lavender, spice, blue/purplish fruit, menthol and crème de cassis all take shape in the glass. The 2021 is a blend of fruit from sites in Oak Knoll and Carneros. In this edition, the Merlot is a bit less juicy than in some previous years, but that's a style that works well. (Antonio Galloni)

The 2022 Merlot is terrific. Bright and aromatic, the 2022 exudes freshness in its red/purplish fruit. Floral overtones and hints of spice, cedar and pipe tobacco add aromatic presence. The 2022 is not quite as opulent as most years, but that's not a bad thing at all. If anything, this more vibrant style is hugely appealing. (Antonio Galloni)

Plush aromas of blackberry compote, graphite, blueberries and blood plums. The palate is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, showing a generous, creamy texture and lingering notes of mocha and bramble berries. Fresh and polished for this hot vintage. Drink or hold.

Sourced from Oak Knoll and Carneros, Plumpjack's 2021 Merlot is a lush, approachable, easy-to-enjoy representation of the variety. The nose features caramelized black cherries, cinnamon, mocha, brown sugar and similar sensations, while the full-bodied palate is round, ripe and supple, even a bit creamy in texture, with a soft, plush finish. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.

Blended from Oak Knoll and Carneros fruit, Plumpjack's 2022 Merlot shows just how well those southern regions fared despite the heat of 2022. Luscious aromas of ripe cherries and strawberries are framed by vanilla oak on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is mouthfilling and juicy. With its modest tannins, this wine is easy to drink, adding a bit more vanilla on the lengthy finish.