Markham vineyards was established in 1874 by French winemaker Jean Laurant who named it Laurent Winery. It has existed as one of the oldest winery buildings in Napa Valley. Bruce Markham purchased the Laurent Winery in 1977 and renamed it Markham Vineyards. In 1988 it was renovated by Mercian Corporation who had purchased the winery from Bruce and then was sold to Distinguished Vineyards in 2019. They have 350 acres of vineyards spread throughout Napa with most of their wines being sourced from estate fruit.

The overall garnet color of this refined Merlot reveals an assortment of red toned fruits with cassis, pomegranate and cranberry undertones. The fruit is pure and fresh and not overly concentrated making it light on its feet with plenty of personality. The soft amount of acidity lifts the wine. There are juicy spices within the core and the tannins are nicely rounded and sweet leading to well balanced Merlot that is fun to savor.

By W Peter Hoyne