Old Winery Road

Napa Valley Merlot

8.82 ratings
8.71 pro ratings
Napa Valley, California, USA
Merlot
Beef, Venison, Salami & Prosciutto, Chili & Hot Spicy, Potato, Exotic Spices, Lamb, White Rice, Baking Spices, Herbs, Pasta, Chicken, Mushrooms, Pungent Cheese, Turkey, Tomato-Based, Soft Cheese, Pork, Beans & Peas, Hard Cheese, Duck, Onion, Shallot, Garlic
Top Notes For
Byron C Mayes

Dark, glass-clinging purple. Near opaque core. Ripe blackberries and plum on the inviting nose and full-bodied palate which adds a surprising bit of graphite. Medium acidity and medium tannins. Nicely fruit-forward California Merlot that's soft and fruity enough for by the glass, but with enough structure for a meal. Drink now through 2028.

Dark, glass-clinging purple. Near opaque core. Ripe blackberries and plum on the inviting nose and full-bodied palate which adds a surprising bit of graphite. Medium acidity and medium tannins. Nicely fruit-forward California Merlot that's soft and fruity enough for by the glass, but with enough structure for a meal. Drink now through 2028.

Oct 31st, 2025
Freddy R. Troya

Old Winery Road – Merlot – 2023
Napa Valley – California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
A deeper, more intense interpretation of Napa Valley Merlot from the historic Old Winery Road label, originally founded in 1857. This bottling leans toward the richer, darker side of the variety, offering concentration, ripe fruit, and a dry, firmly structured profile that sets it apart from softer or plush styles.

Aromas & Flavors
Black cherry, stewed plum, and red berry compote layered with hints of mocha, baking spices, and a touch of cedar.

Mouthfeel
Medium-plus to full-bodied with a firm backbone. Dry, structured tannins support the ripe fruit, while balanced acidity adds lift. The finish is warm, slightly savory, and pleasantly persistent.

Food Pairings
Short ribs, beef lasagna, grilled lamb, mushroom ragù, or cheddar-stuffed burgers.

Verdict
A bold, flavorful Napa Merlot that showcases both depth and grip. More intense and concentrated than the average Merlot, making it a satisfying option for those who like richer reds with a touch of old-school Napa character.

Did You Know?
Old Winery Road traces its legacy back to 1857, recognized as one of California’s earliest premium winery foundations. The label honors the long-standing viticultural heritage that shaped Napa and Sonoma’s earliest wine-producing identity.

Old Winery Road – Merlot – 2023
Napa Valley – California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
A deeper, more intense interpretation of Napa Valley Merlot from the historic Old Winery Road label, originally founded in 1857. This bottling leans toward the richer, darker side of the variety, offering concentration, ripe fruit, and a dry, firmly structured profile that sets it apart from softer or plush styles.

Aromas & Flavors
Black cherry, stewed plum, and red berry compote layered with hints of mocha, baking spices, and a touch of cedar.

Mouthfeel
Medium-plus to full-bodied with a firm backbone. Dry, structured tannins support the ripe fruit, while balanced acidity adds lift. The finish is warm, slightly savory, and pleasantly persistent.

Food Pairings
Short ribs, beef lasagna, grilled lamb, mushroom ragù, or cheddar-stuffed burgers.

Verdict
A bold, flavorful Napa Merlot that showcases both depth and grip. More intense and concentrated than the average Merlot, making it a satisfying option for those who like richer reds with a touch of old-school Napa character.

Did You Know?
Old Winery Road traces its legacy back to 1857, recognized as one of California’s earliest premium winery foundations. The label honors the long-standing viticultural heritage that shaped Napa and Sonoma’s earliest wine-producing identity.

Nov 29th, 2025