Reviews & Ratings

2009 Freemark Abbey Merlot "Napa Valley"

Winery: Freemark Abbey

Vintage: 2009

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Napa Valley"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: 80% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot & 1% Syrah

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $30

Cases produced: 5,500

KWG Score: 89.2 (based on 4 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (90)

Review date: October 26, 2012

Wine Review: This ruby colored Merlot from Freemark Abbey performed well in our mini-tasting. It opens with a mild black cherry bouquet with hints of black currant. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced, and easy going. The flavor profile is a mild blackberry with notes of chocolate and hints of black plum and licorice mixed in. The finish is dry and its acidity builds and lingers along with some tannins as well. The panel felt this Merlot need to be served with some fatty foods. Beef stew and steak au poivre were suggested. Enjoy - KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: The color is a deep, rich ruby-garnet. With forward spicy sweet oak, there are layers of flavor composed of black cherry, raspberry, dark plum, dark chocolate and spices such as cinnamon, clove and vanilla. The entry and finish are very smooth with integrated fruit resembling black cherry and Santa Rosa plum. The velvety texture coupled with the richness of flavor provides a profile that delivers from initial sip, one that continues on the palate for a very long finish….enjoy.

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