Meritage (1985)

About this wine

The 1985 Merryvale Meritage is a testament to Napa Valley's winemaking heritage, offering a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Over the decades, this wine has developed a rich bouquet of black cherry and blackberry, complemented by subtle notes of mint and chocolate. On the palate, it presents a full-bodied experience with velvety tannins and a round, lingering finish that echoes flavors of chocolate and cherry. The 1985 vintage was among the first to be labeled as 'Meritage,' a term coined to represent American wines crafted in the Bordeaux tradition. This wine's complexity and depth reflect the exceptional quality of Napa Valley's vineyards during that era.

About the grape

The 1985 Merryvale Meritage from Napa Valley is a blend of traditional Bordeaux grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its deep color and tannic structure, thrives in Napa's warm climate, contributing to the wine's backbone. Merlot adds softness and ripe fruit flavors, while Cabernet Franc introduces aromatic complexity. Malbec, though less common in Napa, imparts deep color and plum-like notes, and Petit Verdot, used sparingly, enhances color and adds floral hints. This combination reflects the Meritage style, a term coined in the late 1980s to describe American wines crafted in the Bordeaux tradition.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1985 Merryvale Meritage was among the earliest wines to bear the 'Meritage' label, a term coined in 1988 to denote American wines crafted in the Bordeaux style.
• 🏛️ Merryvale Vineyards, established in 1983, was the first winery built in Napa Valley following the repeal of Prohibition in 1933.
• 🍇 The 1985 vintage of Merryvale's Meritage is a blend of classic Bordeaux grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.
• 🏞️ Merryvale's historic building, where the 1985 Meritage was produced, has been a cornerstone of Napa Valley's winemaking heritage, contributing to the region's reputation for high-quality wines.
• 🌄 The 1985 Merryvale Meritage reflects the winery's commitment to producing Bordeaux-style blends that showcase the unique terroir of Napa Valley.

Palate profile

Producer

Merryvale Vineyards, established in 1983, is a family-owned winery located in St. Helena, California, USA. The winery is situated at 1000 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574. The winery's historic building was the first constructed in Napa Valley following the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, and it has become a favorite destination for visitors to the valley. Owned and operated by the Schlatter family since 1992, Merryvale has remained true to its Napa Valley roots while adapting to the ever-evolving wine industry and trends. The winery is committed to sustainable farming practices and has received Napa Green Winery and Fish Friendly Farming certifications.