Paloma 2022 Merlot, Napa Valley

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New release of the legendary Paloma Merlot! This tiny winery on Spring Mountain rocketed from obscurity to collector status overnight when the 2001 vintage was chosen as Wine Spectator's 'No. 1 Wine in the World' and ever since has been hard to get. The Paloma 2021 Merlot is now in stock.

94 Points Wine Spectator: "Silky in texture and gracefully multilayered, offering detailed flavors of black cherry and red currant that take on hints of mocha, vanilla and toasty spices that linger on the supple finish. Drink now through 2035." (August 2026)

The Paloma 2022 vintage is 85%  Merlot and 15% Cabernet, all estate grown, and it's even more gorgeous than years past. It is a big, world-class red wine capable of improving with bottle age for many years.  Complex aromas of black berry fruits, chocolate, tobacco, spice and floral notes with mineral overtone.  On the palate the wine has a big silky mouth feel, well balanced with flavors of berries, fruit, cocoa, and spice, with a long spicy, velvety finish.  Wine Spectator #1 Wine in the World in 2001.

Founders of Paloma Vineyard, Barbara and Jim Richards, dreamt of building a vineyard focused on sustainable farming that would highlight the grapes and terroir of their favorite region. This dream was realized in 1983 when a friend, Dan Duckhorn, called and told them about the property now known as Paloma Vineyard. Over the next 25 years, Jim and Barbara worked to clear, plant, and cultivate the 7,500 Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Barbara’s devotion to the vines was abundantly evident having once claimed, “I can name all 7,500 of my children.” After their passings in 2009 and 2016, Jim and Barbara’s legacy has left its mark on Spring Mountain and in the Napa Valley.