In 1977, winemaker Ric Forman introduced Dan Duckhorn to brothers Sloan and John Upton, owners of Three Palms Vineyard in Calistoga. The property has three palm trees planted on the estate and was originally the residence of San Francisco socialite, Lillie Hitchcock Coit who passed in 1929. The Uptons purchased the estate and planted vineyards in 1967 with strict standards in maintaining this hallowed parcel of land. These sun drenched, rocky volcanic soils became the source of Duckhorn’s single vineyard, luxury-styled Three Palms Merlot. Under the guidance of winemaker Tom Rinaldi, Duckhorn released their inaugural release of 1978 Duckhorn Three Palms Merlot to rave reviews. In 2014, Duckhorn Three Palms Merlot was named Wine Spectator’s 2017 Wine of the Year. By 2015, Dan Duckhorn would purchase the entire 83 acre estate.

The Three Palms Vineyard Merlot redefined Merlot in Napa Valley and around the world. This Merlot is composed of 87% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc aged for 18 months in 100% French Oak (75% new, 25% neutral). This is a profound and archetypal expression of Merlot that establishes the standard by which other Merlots are measured.

In the glass, the wine reveals a deep garnet-purple hue with remarkable saturation. It opens with aromatic bursts of black plum compote and dark cherry puree followed by finely chiseled, crushed stone. On the palate, the wine continues to emerge with layers of huckleberry, dark cocoa, espresso and freshly cut cedar. Within the core are nuanced elements of spice and a faint volcanic minerality, typical to Three Palms Vineyard. Although concentrated, the wine has restrained power with a softness to the touch. Beneath the wine’s richness are ripe, supple tannins that unfold leading you to a creamy and glowing finish. Given more time, this wine may be destined for the afterworld. This is an iconic and compelling example of Merlot that distinguishes itself from other Napa Valley producers and some of their French counterparts. Congrats to Renee Ary and her team at Duckhorn.

By W Peter Hoyne