Reviews & Ratings

2009 Aquinas Merlot "Napa Valley"

Winery: Aquinas

Vintage: 2009

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Napa Valley"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: 88% Merlot & 12% Syrah

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $22

Cases produced: 3,800

KWG Score: 87 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good (88)

Review date: November 5, 2012

Wine Review: This opaque and very dark ruby colored Merlot opens with a black raspberry bouquet with a hint of strawberry licorice and plum. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, smooth, and fruit forward. The flavor profile is maraschino cherry with nicely integrated old oak with hints of red currant and black pepper. The finish is pleasant and displays dry sticky tannins linger for quite a while. This wine would pair well with a pulled pork sandwich and lasagna. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: This plum colored Merlot expresses Bordeaux like aromatics such as ripe cassis and sweet leather, yet still maintains the forward ripe cherry fruit that the Napa Valley is known for. The palate is very forward with generous and supple black cherry, ripe plum and integrated tannins, making this wine an age worthy Merlot. The finish displays firm tannins laced with sweet vanilla notes.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Aquinas 2009 Merlot.