Farella 'Estate' Napa Valley Merlot 2018/21

In Short

A full-bodied Napa Valley Merlot with ripe dark cherry and plum, softened by velvety tannins and a touch of cocoa.

Quick Facts

• Region: Napa Valley, California
• Variety: Merlot
• Style: Full-bodied red
• Best For: Dinner, red meat, structured wines

Why We Stock It

This is a straightforward expression of what Napa Merlot does well at this price: dark fruit concentration, smooth tannins, and enough structure to age. It suits someone who wants a polished red without searching for something obscure, and it will drink nicely over the next several years.

Tasting Profile

Ripe and well-layered, with dark fruit at its core and a soft, approachable finish.

• Aroma: Ripe dark cherry, plum, subtle oak spice
• Palate: Black fruit, velvety tannins, hint of cocoa
• Structure & Finish: Full body, balanced acidity, elegant length

Winemaking

Aged in oak to integrate spice and structure without overwhelming the fruit. The tannins are soft enough to drink now but firm enough to age.

Serving & Pairing

Serve around 64 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit. No decanting is necessary, though letting it breathe for 15 minutes will help. It pairs well with grilled steak or a burger, and equally with braised short ribs or duck breast where the wine's acidity cuts through richness.

The Estate

Farella is a Napa Valley producer focused on estate fruit. Their approach emphasizes the quality of the vineyard and careful fruit handling to let the varietal speak clearly.

Terroir

Napa Valley's warm days and cool nights ripen Merlot fully while preserving acidity. The valley floor and foothills soils give the grape room to develop the dark fruit character and soft tannins that define this bottling.