Review: 2022 Charles Krug Merlot Napa Valley
Merlot is back, baby — thanks to Charles Krug (and others, I’m sure).
Pro tip: Give this wine a solid half-hour of air time — or decant — before tucking in. Initially rather closed off and slightly green, the merlot’s less effusive elements blow off with a bit of time, and the wine finally comes into its own. Iconic violets are front and center, giving the wine a purple-floral quality that you just don’t find in other grape varietals. From there (again, with ample airtime), the wine slides its way into fruit-forward notes of strawberry and plum. Those violets reveal themselves as candied, with a pinch of ground star anise playing out over the top. Baking spice plays out on the finish — not just cinnamon and nutmeg, but cardamom and some coriander, too. The fade-out evokes notes of sweet raspberry coulis — which actually gums up what is otherwise a really seductive ride.
A- / $31 / charleskrug.com
2022 Charles Krug Merlot Napa Valley
$31
