2017 Enfield Wine Co. Merlot XB01/Unbound - USA, California, Napa Valley, Coombsville (5/25/2018)
Is Merlot making a comeback? I have recently had delicious Merlot from Matthiasson and Once & Future. I have, but have not yet opened the Dirty & Rowdy Merlot. Now comes the first Merlot from Enfield Wine Co, and it’s a doozy. The aromatics are complex, combining dark red fruit, floral and exotic spice (cumin, cardamom). There is significant structure, tannins coating the mouth from the mid-palate through the finish, with enough fruit to stand up to the task. Ultimately it feels like a Bordeaux wine, as its dark, brooding personality does not exactly speak of California sunshine. That being said, it’s an interesting drink, which will be fun to follow over the next few years.