2008 Twomey Merlot

Twomey's story begins with a remarkable vineyard - Soda Canyon Ranch - in southeastern Napa Valley. The Duncan family purchased the ranch for Silver Oak's Cabernet Sauvignon, but soon discovered that the blocks planted to Merlot featured top-flight clones, worthy of a wine on their own. Daniel Baron, Director of Winemaking for Silver Oak, had a passion for Merlot, having worked in both Pomerol and St. Emilion during his career. He'd always hoped to make a California Merlot with a French sensibility, and with fruit from Soda Canyon Ranch, this dream became a reality. Using Ray Duncan's middle name (his mother's maiden name), Twomey was established, and in 2003, moved to its current home in Calistoga.

After establishing its reputation for producing high quality Merlot, Twomey expanded its production to include Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Ray Duncan's sons Tim and David, who act as Managing Partners of Twomey, are self proclaimed Pinot Noir enthusiasts and the program has grown steadily under their guidance.