2016 Livermore Valley Merlot - Cuda Ridge Wines

Muddled blackberry, lit cigar, damson plum. Black currant, coarse gravel, dark cherry preserve. Dried violet and rose funk, portobello mushroom and fresh basil. Organic licorice collides with fig & raspberry glaze showcasing both density and lift, then focus abruptly shifts to wild briar and roasted pepper. Loose leaf tobacco, rosemary needles, and chopped mint provide savory herbaceous complexity followed by a dousing of cinnamon, dark chocolate espresso, and exotic spice. County fair barnyard perfume acclimates amongst gorgeous funky florals while sticky clay loam and notes of Bordeaux-esque rocky soils paint terroir. Elegant, fresh, and characterful. This 2016 Livermore Valley Merlot by Cuda Ridge Wines is impressive right-bank style Merlot from California.

Located just east of the San Francisco Bay in Northern California, Livermore was one of the first American wine regions to become known for producing high-quality Bordeaux grape varieties. This bottling, crafted by Cuda Ridge Wines from 100% Merlot sourced from select vineyards around Livermore, reaffirms that this valley is a perfect fit for Bordeaux-style wines. This wine is well balanced and delightfully structured, possessing assertive tannin and fresh acidity within its medium plus bodied frame. While not shy to show off a bit of fruit it is ultimately quite terroir driven and exhibits a nice medley of integrated pyrazines and herbal spices. Oak is present but balanced and does not overwhelm. Think Saint-Émilion with a pleasant California twist; Miles would have no complaints here.