Lot 55 | 2005 Napa Valley

Lot 55 Meritage is an expression of what is best in Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. Each varietal's contribution weaves a tapestry of flavors centered on a concentrated core of currant, black cherry, blackberry, and sweet cigar smoke. The wine is opulent in the mouth, finishing within a framework of toasty French oak, dark chocolate, and freshly roasted coffee. The tannins are well integrated, and the wine will grow more succulent with each minute in the glass.

• Vintage
• 2005
• Appellation
• Napa Valley
• Grape
• Merlot 51%, Cabernet Sauvignon 22%, Cabernet Franc 17%, Malbec 10%
• Alcohol by Volume
• 14.5%
• Cases Produced
• 2000
• Drink/hold

Meritage is an invented word that combines "merit" and "heritage." A group of American vintners formed the Meritage Association to identify hand-crafted wines blended from the traditional "noble" Bordeaux varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Sauvignon Vert.

My motto is and always has been that "blended is better." This philosophy truly shines through in Lot 55, a fabulous orchestration of wines I sourced from various regions of Napa Valley. In fact, blended together these wines are worth far more and taste far better than they would individually. Compare at $30 to $40.