Provenance Vineyards Merlot Napa Valley 2022

Viticulture

This Merlot is selected from some of the best vineyards in Napa Valley, including Oakville and Oak Knoll. The Oakville terroir adds dark fruit, a dense texture and a flinty finish. The Oak Knoll terroir adds ripe red and blue fruit, spice, and a focused acidity due to the deeper soils.

Vinification

Hand harvested at night. Cold soaked the must for 5-6 days at 50 degrees Fahrenheit. 7-10 day cooler fermentation at 82 degrees Fahrenheit with 1-2 pump-overs per day, then a light pressing to barrel. Malolactic fermentation in barrels with weekly stirring to develop rich texture. Minimalistic winemaking approach with periodic topping and aeration as decided by the winemaker during monthly tastings.

100% barrel aged for 18 months in French oak (25% new)

Tasting notes

Opens with red and black berry fruit aromas. The palate is layered with notes of ripe black cherry, raspberry, cassis and bramble berry fruit with hints of cola, milk chocolate, graham cracker and sweet baking spices – all influences from the oak aging.

Winery Description

Provenance Vineyards began in 1999 and quickly earned a stellar reputation as the Napa Valley Cabernet house. Over the years, Provenance expanded into also producing tasting-room only regional exclusives and single-vineyard wine for other red, Bordeaux-style blends and white wine. Its founding family had the vision to produce fine wines that were true works of art of unique “provenance” or authentic origin.

Over the years, the brand has passed through the hands of two corporate owners. And in November 2021, the Allen Lombardi family acquired Provenance Vineyards. Attracted to its rich history, timeless style and strong growth potential, the Lombardis are committed to building the next chapter of the brand – increasing domestic distribution (and expanding globally) in fine wine shops and restaurants. The goal is make Provenance Vineyards wine more accessible to Napa wine lovers throughout the world.