2022 Cellar No. 254 Merlot
James Suckling, May 30, 2024
The Martini winery was the first in Napa Vallye to label a varietal merlot, and this is an excellent one. Supple, nicely saturated with dark fruit and laced with light green olive, sage and oak spices. Harmonious, well balanced and full-bodied with medium tannins. Drink or hold.
In September 2022, winegrowers faced extreme heat over a period of five days, which was quickly followed by rain, bringing harvest to a halt. This and other weather events that defined the 2022 vintage showcase the range of flavors for which Napa Valley wines are so well known. For our 2022 Cellar No. 254 Merlot, the outcome is a flavorful expression, with aromas of ripe red plums, fennel seed, vanilla, caramelized sugar and star anise on the nose. Notes of sweet vermouth, strawberry purée and toasted oak layer on the mediumbodied palate. Plush and smooth tannins unfurl on the midpalate culminating in a structured finish.
TECHNICAL DATA
Appellation: Napa Valley
Varietal Cotnent: 95% Merlot, 5% Malbec
Alcohol Content: 15%
Residual Sugar: 0.13g/L
PH: 3.59
Titratble Acidity: 0.58g/L