Mt. Brave Mt. Veeder Napa Merlot 2022 Rated 97JS

James Suckling ReviewRated 97One of the most structured, focused and intense merlots in Napa Valley. So laced with super-fine-grained tannins, it's pointed, precise, linear and concentrated. A powerful wine that will age gracefully. Deep in black cherries, red cherries, cocoa, iron and graphite notes. Contains 15% cabernet sauvignon. Drinkable now, but best from 2030. More Critical Acclaim 96 Decanter: Powerful mountain tannins, mulberry, thyme, dark chocolate, black sea salt, forest-floor complexity. A powerful, structured Merlot that remains remarkably approachable—and more than capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world. 94 Jeb Dunnuck: Juicy red and black berries, leafy herbs, leather, baking spice; rich, medium-to-full bodied with purity and finesse. This beautifully made Merlot will drink well for 15+ years. Mt. Brave Mt. Veeder Napa Merlot 2022 A powerful, mountain-grown Merlot with exceptional structure, purity, and the signature intensity of Mt. Veeder.The 2022 Mt. Brave Merlot is one of the most acclaimed Merlot releases of the vintage, delivering deep fruit concentration, fine-grained tannins, and remarkable precision. A benchmark expression crafted by winemaker Chris Carpenter. Key Details Producer: Mt. Brave (The Spire Collection) Region: Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley Varietal: 84% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon ABV: 14.4% Aging: 22 months in 75% new French oak Style: Structured, concentrated, mountain-driven Tasting Notes Black cherry, red cherry, and boysenberry Blueberry jam, cocoa, and dark chocolate Iron, graphite, and mountain minerality Super-fine tannins with a long, linear, powerful finish Profile & Craft High-elevation Mt. Veeder vineyards with steep, rocky soils Precision farming and clonal selection by Chris Carpenter Blend includes 16% Cabernet Sauvignon for structure Built for longevity and complexity Serving & Pairing Serve at 60-65°F; decant 45-60 minutes Pairs with lamb, ribeye, braised short ribs, and earthy dishes Cellaring potential: 15+ years (best from 2030 onward)