Chris Hamilton 2021 Merlot Yountville   

2021 Chris Hamilton Merlot Yountville, Napa Valley
San Francisco Wine Panel Score 93+ Points
Big and surprisingly gutsy for a young Merlot, this wine opens with a coiled aromatic medley of dark cherry, red currant, red rose, vanilla and baking spice. Red currant, red cherry and bitter-sweet hazelnut husk notes are firmed by Cabernet-like tannins on the palate, where the wine’s impressions of rich body and density seem amplified. The finish lingers well, but is initially dominated by savory notes of star anise, nutmeg and sweet tobacco. As the wine airs however, there is a surprising change, as a deep core of black and red cherry and red currant takes center stage, before pretty supporting flavors of hazelnut nougat, star anise cinnamon stick and sweet tobacco. The combination of youthful zest, guts and restraint suggests that this wine could be a real beauty if allowed a bit of cellar time, but decanting may bring satisfaction without the wait.