Whitehall Lane 2019 Merlot   

2019 Whitehall Lane Merlot Napa Valley

San Francisco Wine Panel Score 93 Points

This may be the richest Merlot Whitehall has released. The nose is focused and notably ripe and it offers dark cherry, Cassis, blackberry,sandalwood, cedar and baking spice scents that roll out in fine harmony. It is both tongue-coating and zesty on the palate, where tannins firm the texture but stay subordinate to the fruit and spice medley. A flavorful lingering yet slightly less evolved finish indicates that the wine should improve for another year or two at least and suggests that in its youth it will show its best with darkly flavorful roasts and rich winter entrees.