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JDB Wines 2013 'Cerro' Napa Valley Merlot

JDB Wines 2013 'Cerro' Napa Valley Merlot

Mission Codename High on Chiles

In the 80s and the 90s, Caymus Vineyards opened the eyes of wine connoisseurs to a Napa Valley red style that was infinitely complex with fine-grained tannins that combined elegance and approachability at an early age. Prior to that era, most of Napa’s famous ‘big reds’ all delivered in the brawn and depth departments while requiring years of cellar time to be truly enjoyable. The JDB project is a spin-off from the Caymus family that truly dials into that classicism, particularly with the Cerro labels that showcase top Napa Valley vineyards. If you enjoy blue chips such as Caymus, Silver Oak, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Robert Mondavi or Joseph Phelps, this Cerro Merlot will genuinely overdeliver for its – for one day only on Wine Spies – rarely seen sub-$25 price. Close your eyes, sit back and sip away to a time when the Napa lifestyle was instituted by its forefathers.

An alluring deep crimson fades gently to the broad garnet rim, hinting at extended barrel age. A much fresher whiff reveals blackberry, blueberry, and plum, dancing on Tahitian vanilla, rose petal floral notes and exotic sweet spices. Aromas of black cherry and blackcurrant get coated on the palate by layers of dark chocolate and sweet espresso. The echoing finish delivers impact and texture through silky-soft sweet tannins, inviting for another sip. This would be the ultimate red for an elaborate picnic with grilled Gruyère and pastrami on rye or a lavish pasta salad.

Winemaker Derek Beitler is Caymus founder Charlie Wagner’s grandson and his wines are truly worthy of the legacy. While he collaborates with his cousin Joey Wagner on the Carne Humana label, with Bodega Rancho and Cerro, he’s the sole proprietor. He believes that the Nichelini vineyard that sits above 1,000 feet elevation authoritatively over Napa’s cool Chiles Valley in the Vaca Mountains, is the perfect site for Merlot to fully ripen while holding onto its freshness thanks to the major swing in temperature in the cold, cold nights up there. This red of great complexity and heritage is a world-class Merlot and for the value it brings would put many Cabernet to shame in blind tastings. See for yourself and shock your “I don’t drink anything but Cabernet” friends!

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What the Winery Says 2013 'Cerro' Napa Valley Merlot

JDB Wines
JDB Wines
Winemaker
Derek Beitler
Vintage
2015
Appellation
Chiles Valley, Napa Valley
Composition
100% Merlot
Abv
14.3%
Aging
36 months in old French oak
Production
9 barrels

About the Winery JDB Wines

JDB Wines Winemaker Derek Beitler
JDB Wines Winemaker Derek Beitler
JDB Wines 2013 'Cerro' Napa Valley Merlot 750ml Wine Bottle
Offer Expired May 24, 2019 at 11:59 pm
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JDB Wines 2013 'Cerro' Napa Valley Merlot 750ml Wine Bottle
Offer Expired May 24, 2019 at 11:59 pm
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