Robert Foley Vineyards 2017 Merlot, Napa Valley

Robert Foley Vineyards 2017 Merlot, Napa Valley

Item Number: 17349

UPC: None

Country: USA
Region: California
Sub Region: Napa Valley
Appellation/AVA: Napa Valley
Estate Grown Wine: No
Vintage: 2017
Grape(s): Merlot
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Pack: 12
Closure: Cork

Harvest: Manual
Fruit Source: Mostly Calistoga, with a little Howell Mountain
Vinification: 7-day fermentation; aging in French oak barrels

Wine Notes: Robert Foley produced his first commercial Merlot in the 1976 vintage when it was about as well-known as Charbono is today. After several years of trying to convince folks to give it a try, its popularity grew and eventually snowballed. Of course, Bordeaux producers have worked with this grape variety for centuries, and it is the noble variety of the Cabernet family on the right bank of that region. Like its Cabernet cousin, Merlot grown in well-drained soils can develop profound expression and firm structure.

Tasting Notes: Deep and Dark in color, this 100% Merlot combines the structure of Howell Mountain fruit with the softness of the lower elevation Calistoga vineyard. A gush of cherry candy flavors floods the mid palate with a deliciously rich texture. Gentle tannins coat the mouth and resolve with well-balanced acidity in the long mouthwatering finish. This is a Merlot for Cabernet lovers.

93pts (2018 Vintage) Jeb Dunnuck 2/16/2023
"A great value in high-end Merlot, the 2018 Merlot has a medium to full-bodied, perfumed, elegant style as well as lots of ripe back cherry and cassis fruits, some floral, spicy, chocolaty nuances, ultra-fine tannins, good mid-palate depth, and a great finish. Drink bottles any time over the coming 10-12+ years."

Reviews

  • Jeb Dunnuck
    Rating: 94 (1/27/2021)

    I loved the 2017 Merlot from Foley, a medium to full-bodied, rounded, undeniably delicious Merlot offering textbook dark cherry, chocolate, tobacco, and baking spice aromas and flavors. A mix of valley floor and hillside fruit, it’s going to drink well for 10-15 years.