Keenan Napa Merlot '21

From Keenan's steep, southwest-facing vineyards at 1,700 ft elevation, this Merlot embodies mountain-grown sophistication. Deep ruby with a viscous rim, it offers a complex nose of black plum compote, violets, cocoa powder, and a distinctive crushed basalt minerality—a signature of Spring Mountain's volcanic soils. The palate is dense yet nimble, with layered flavors of black cherry liqueur, dark chocolate-covered espresso beans, and a touch of dried sage that unfold across satin-textured tannins. Aged 20 months in 40% new French oak (Darnajou barrels), it retains remarkable freshness (pH 3.72) despite its 14.8% ABV. Wine Advocate (95 pts) praises its "Bordeaux Right Bank gravitas with Napa sun-kissed fruit," suggesting peak drinking 2026–2038. Only 150 cases produced. Decant 2 hours for duck confit with cherry gastrique or cellar for future milestones.