Bottle Notes, Merlot

2008 Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot – Bottle Notes

Pride Mountain Vineyards was founded in 1991 by Jim and Carolyn Pride on a site once known as Summit Winery. Jim Pride died in 2004, but the Pride children, Steve Pride and Suzanne Pride Bryan, now own and run the winery. The property consists of 235 acres, 183 of which are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Sangiovese, Viognier and Chardonnay.

Dark crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Rich scents of dark fruits, chocolate and anise. Full bodied, plush and opulent. Black cherry, leather, tobacco, plum and cocoa powder on the palate. Silky tannins and a long finish pull this all together. I still have a preference for the Bob Foley versions of the early to mid 2000’s. Drink over the next 2-3 years.

My rating: 91 points.

Current vintages of Pride can be found at retail and via the mailing list. The Merlot should run around $55. Pride is also a great stop on your next visit to Napa Valley.

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