| Producer | Pride Mountain Vineyards |
| Country | United States |
| Region | California |
| Subregion | Napa Valley |
| Varietal | Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot |
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Sku | U1011156 |
| Size | 750ml |
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Generous would be an understatement in describing the fruit of the 2022 Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot. The opulence and finesse of this wine beautifully showcase mountain fruit at its best. Blackberries dominate the first impression before unfurling into attractive aromas of black cherry and ripe plum, carefully accented by hints of bay and chocolate, with a touch of sage. The juicy, ripe fruit makes for a mouth-watering first sip, but is kept at heel by its considerable tension, owing to the playful interchange of its balanced acidity and supple tannin structure. It is those traits that linger, providing a long, luxurious finish. It is stunning now and will continue to impress for years to come.
Lush aromas of Damson plums, blackcurrants and dried herbs. The palate is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving notes of mocha, blueberry bush, graphite and licorice. Well balanced and textural. Drink or hold.
Spicy, herbal, black cherry and leather‑like notes; medium‑bodied, juicy, plump. Ripe tannins and integrated acidity; likely to age well over next 10 years.
The 2022 Merlot is packed with blackberry jam, chocolate, licorice, espresso, menthol, and tobacco. This full-bodied, potent Merlot packs a huge punch. Then again, this is 2022. —A.G.
Pride's 2022 Merlot includes 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Red and black cherries lead the way on the nose, joined by hints of coffee and chocolate. In the mouth, this is full-bodied, plush and velvety yet retains decent acidity and reveals ample length on the finish. 2025-2033. —J.C.
