Merlot Meets the Moment

The 2021 vintage in California offers plenty of great drinking for this often overlooked red 

Barnett’s St. Helena vineyards in Napa, California
The hills of Barnett’s St. Helena vineyards are ideal for growing Merlot. (Courtesy of Barnett)

The 2021 vintage for California Merlot showcases powerful performers boasting high ratings and stylistic successes. Read senior editor Tim Fish’s tasting report to get scores and tasting notes for recently released wines, including standout bottlings and good values from top producers such as Barnett Vineyards, Whitehall Lane, Rutherford Hill, Duckhorn and more!

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