Pahlmeyer Merlot Napa Valley 2014

97 points James Suckling: "Blackberries, blueberries, forest floor and hints of Spanish cedar. Full-bodied and tight with firm and silky tannins and long and beautiful focus. Goes on for minutes. Terrific wine. Drink or hold. (1/26/17)"

94 points Robert Parker: "The 2014 Merlot is a blend of 94.5% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Malbec. It has a dense purple color, although not as saturated as the 2015 or 2013, with a beautiful fruited nose of blackberry, plum, chocolate, mocha and espresso. The aromatics are killer and then the wine hits the palate with a medium to full-bodied lushness and an expression that says, 'Kiss me!' This is a delicious, front-end loaded, full-bodied Merlot to drink over the next 15 or so years. Drink: 2016-2031. (Dec 2016)"

Producer notes: "93% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine has black amethyst color and a nose of boysenberry, violets, vanilla and an appealing hint of dust. The velvety palate reveals juicy red cherry and raspberry fruit, backed with an earthy kick, gripping structure, and fully integrated oak. Distinctive dark, savory notes from the Petit Verdot highlight the lingering finish."