Reviews & Ratings

2011 Swanson Vineyards Merlot "Napa Valley"

Winery: Swanson Vineyards

Vintage: 2011

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Napa Valley"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon & Petit Verdot

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $38

Cases produced: 8,330

KWG Score: 88 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good (88)

Review date: December 2, 2014

Wine Review: This dark red colored Merlot from Napa Valley opens with a black cherry-cola bouquet with a hint of oak. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced, and savory. The flavor profile is a mineral infused black currant with notes of oak. I also detected hints of black olive and faint black plum. The finish is dry and its moderate tannins are a bit sticky. I would pair this hearty Merlot with a beef bourguignon. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: The 2011 Swanson Napa Valley Merlot presents immediate appeal, showing a vibrant garnet color and robust aromas of freshly-crushed red and black cherries. Notes of sweet blackberry, coffee and allspice add further complexity. In the mouth, the wine exhibits ample black and red fruits, medium body and a fragrant, lingering finish. Expect optimum drinkability from 2014 through 2022.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Swanson 2011 Merlot.