Cardinale – La Jota Vineyard – Howell Mountain Estate – Merlot 2013 – W.S. Keyes Vineyard – Napa Valley

The nose is aromatic, elegant and fruity. It reveals notes of blackberry, plum and fine notes of cassis combined with slight notes of violet, almond as well as discreet / slight hints of toasted oak, cocoa, caramelization and a subtle / discreet hint of leather (in the background). The palate is fruity, well-balanced, silky, quite supple and offers a beautiful juiciness, a beautiful acid frame, a nice minerality (in the background), gourmandise, a beautiful elegance as well as a beautiful finesse. On the palate this wine expresses notes of blackberry, cassis and slight notes of plum associated with touches of strawberry, small notes of dark chocolate, almond, caramelization (on the finish) as well as subtle hints of hazelnut on the finish. Tannins are fine and chewy. Beautiful chew and gourmandise on the finish.