Professor Bainbridge...on law, politics, religion, culture & food

Duckhorn Merlot (Napa Valley) 1999

So much California merlot these days is industrial plonk that it is a real pleasure to come across a well-crafted example. Although Duckhorn has a fairly large output, even this basic Napa Valley AVA bottling has an artisian character. Still a deep purple shading to ruby at the very rim. Strong nose of currants and anise. Toasty oak notes on the palate followed by cherries and currants. Seasoned with a note of soy sauce. Should continue to improve for at least a couple more years. Grade: A-