The John Anthony Reserve Merlot is selected from the best barrels of the vintage. Sourced from Crane Vineyard, this estate was the first vineyard John planted in 1996. Deep ruby-purple tones in the glass with aromas of pluots, apriums, fragrant rose petals, and tarragon. The palate is vibrant with red plum, huckleberry, and macerated strawberries. Cocoa nib and fresh tobacco notes add complexity and depth. A dense fruit core and chewy tannins unwind into a refined finish. Aged for 20 months in 67% new French oak. Only 75 cases available.

Vintage Notes: Mild temperatures augured an ideal start to the 2020 growing season, with low winter rainfall contributing to an early bud break. Warm summer conditions were buffered by cool mornings heading into harvest, promoting evenhanded flavors and structure in the Merlot fruit across John Anthony’s Napa Valley estates.