At Frog’s Leap, Merlot is taken very seriously. Their
holdings in the eastern part of Rutherford is perfectly suited for growing
Merlot due to its rich, clay loam soils. Sustainable, dry-farming practices at
the winey reveal the true personality of the grape variety, which centers
around deep dark black and blue fruits with silky tannins. We scored big when
we locked in on the last of their 2010 Rutherford Merlot which was buried in
the back of their warehouse for several years. This library vintage Merlot has
been perfectly stored and now is poised to show off its elegance, purity, and
restraint—all attributes of the Frog’s Leap style. You will think twice about
loading up on over-saturated and over-oaked Napa Cabernet Sauvignon when you
taste this effort after an ample decant. A plush beauty ready to reveal its gorgeous
dark plum fruit and dried blueberry/cherry notes. Seasoned with baker’s
chocolate, tobacco, and vanilla spice. Judging a wine’s pedigree can be
determined at its 10-year mark. This is usually reserved for the “classics”:
Top Growth Bordeaux, Blue-Chip Napa Cab, Cru Barolo and Grand Cru Burgundy. Well,
add this to the list. This has better integration and silkiness than most $150
to $300 Mountain Napa Cabs at the same age. We extremely excited to turn clients onto this library gem!