2022
Pahlmeyer Merlot
The 2022 Pahlmeyer Merlot is generous yet structured, a dynamic interplay of intensity and vibrancy. Aromas of brambly blackberry, macerated black cherry, and wild raspberry rise from the glass, underscored by crushed peppercorn, fresh sage, and a hint of forest floor. On the palate, a rich core of dark plum and fresh fig is wrapped in plush, velvety tannins, while savory, earthy notes emerge with time: tobacco leaf, cocoa nib, and plowed earth. The finish is long and lifted, carried by the wine’s natural energy and a lingering touch of violet and warm spice. With its dark fruit core amplified in its youth, this wine will evolve beautifully over the next decade, developing further nuance and refinement.
— Winemaker Katie Vogt
98% Merlot, 2% Malbec
- Winemaker
- Katie Vogt
- Alcohol
- 15.1%
- Harvested Start Date
- September 1, 2022
- Harvested End Date
- September 30, 2022
- Bottled Date
- May 2024
- Release Date
- March 2025
Winemaking Notes
We hand harvested each of our high-elevation sites in the cool of night. At the winery, the clusters were meticulously hand sorted and destemmed, with only the most perfect berries delivered to the tank. Fruit was gently and slowly extracted, spending up to 18 days on skins. Free-run juice was then collected overnight and aged separately from press cuts. We aged the wine in 82% new French oak barrels for 18 months. Select lots were
carefully blended, with a touch of Malbec lending even more plushness and depth. The wine was bottled without fining or filtering in May 2024, enjoying additional bottle age before release.
— Winemaker Katie Vogt
The 2022 Pahlmeyer Merlot leans heavily on Waters Ranch at the southernmost end of Atlas Peak, perched on a ridgeline with views of the city of Napa and the San Pablo Bay. This Merlot showcases a wonderfully classic character, with spiced plums and mocha notes building into a mid-palate of impressive length, power, and fruit density. Bright savory elements—black truffle and loamy earth—add depth, while the wine maintains excellent length and driving energy. One of the most effortlessly drinkable and charming Merlots from this label, perfect to enjoy now while vintages like 2021 and 2019 continue to evolve.
