2021 Emmolo Merlot Napa Valley
Cocktail cherries and sweet spice, with notes of savory bread, newly oiled leather and pronounced French oak on the nose. Smooth upon entry, with a richness that builds. Flavors of cherry, spice and savory bread carry over from the nose, with lush plums and a hint of jerky. Dusty, powdery tannins lend softness. French oak character comes through on the nose, palate and lingering finish.
Yet another Wagner joins the fold! With her brothers Joe and Charlie running Belle Glos and Mer Soleil, respectively, and her father Chuck helming the family flagship at Caymus Vineyards, Jenny Wagner is taking a different tack in continuing her mother's side of the family legacy. Dating back to the 1920's when her maternal great-grandfather established a vineyard nursery in Rutherford, Jenny's roots on both sides of her family tree stretch deep into the very early days of Napa Valley. She has partnered with her grandparents, who still own and farm Napa vineyards, and her mother, who established the brand by making wine in the same building that housed the family's original winery in 1934. Emmolo (em-oh-low) represents another step forward for one of Napa Valley's first families of winemaking excellence.