2009 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon
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Owned by Bill Foley. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Coombsville (granted AVA status in 2012) aged 20 months in 100% new French oak. Winery began in a garage in the late 90s and is described as a cult wine. The Foleys bought it in 2005 – their first property in Napa. Ripe, dark, rich and velvety, almost a little port like although the fruit is not raisined. Thick texture – hope it will slim down in the bottle. I find it a bit heavy but it is certainly rich and concentrated and went well with parts of the cheese course. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(15.1% alcohol): Bright, saturated ruby-red. Deep aromas of blackberry, black raspberry, cola, chocolate, minerals and spicy oak. Dense, concentrated and sweet, with an almost confectionery quality to the chocolatey dark fruit flavors. A strong spine of tannins gives this very rich cabernet plenty of support. Finishes with powerful fruit and palate-staining length. I would probably opt to enjoy this wine over the next seven or eight years, for its youthful fruit.
The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon flows across the palate with dark berries, espresso, mocha, grilled herbs and sweet spices, all of which come together in a soft, sumptuous style that is very appealing. Ripe, silky tannins typical of the vintage support the fruit all the way through to the long, generous finish. The 2009 spent 18 months in French oak barrels and is the first vintage made with the consulting services of Paul Hobbs. This is a terrific showing from Merus. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. Tel. (707) 251-5551