2021 Sullivan J.O. Founders Reserve Merlot Rutherford Napa

VINTAGE NOTES:

The 2021 vintage set the stage for wines that promised exceptional richness and enduring charm, and it absolutely delivered.  Napa Valley encountered a parched winter extending into spring, with intermittent rains rejuvenating the vines. Despite a few sporadic heat spikes, the vines thrived in relatively mild and consistent temperatures, ensuring uniform fruit maturation.  With yields reduced by 30%, the vines prioritized ripening only what they could. The outcome: a vintage with diminished yields, offering petite, intensely flavored berries crafting wines of notable density, concentration, and vigor.

TASTING NOTES:

Savor the nuanced charm of the 2021 J.O. Sullivan Founder's Reserve Merlot, an absolute masterpiece. Revealing intricate notes of blueberries, hints of tobacco leaves, and a whisper of toasty vanilla, it gracefully unfolds. Dense yet understated, matured tannins and integrated acidity dance in harmony. The sophisticated finish arrives with refined elegance and polished subtlety. In every sip, the commitment to Merlot excellence is undeniable. This vintage greatly champions the noble variety, a quiet celebration of the estate's unwavering commitment to the artistry and distinction of Merlot