A flamboyant style, rich and showy but complex at the core, with black cherry, mocha espresso and spice flavors that glide toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2033. 2,291 cases made.
94 points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator (Nov 2025)
The 2022 Pahlmeyer Merlot leans heavily on Waters Ranch at the southernmost end of Atlas Peak, perched on a ridgeline with views of the city of Napa and the San Pablo Bay. This Merlot showcases wonderfully classic character, with spiced plums and mocha notes building into a mid-palate of impressive length, power, and fruit density. Bright savoury elements—black truffle and loamy earth—add depth, while the wine maintains excellent length and driving energy. One of the most effortlessly drinkable and charming Merlots from this label, perfect to enjoy now while vintages like 2021 and 2019 continue to evolve.
94 points, Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter (Feb 2025)
Pahlmeyer Merlot quickly became a Napa icon. Here, the 2023 shows off what makes it one. Mixed berries, dark fruits, flowering herbs, graphite, and a pithy finish stimulate the palate while offering generosity and plenty of structure to serve a meal as well as continue to develop in bottle.
93 points, Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast (Dec 2025)
The 2022 Merlot relies more on the Waters Ranch (70%), as it has some deeper soils than Stagecoach and the irrigation at this 60-acre site may've been more efficient, according to winemaker Katie Vogt. Ripe cherries and deep loam notes lead the way, with this vintage not showing much in the way of herbal complexity on the nose. The wine is full-bodied, open-knit and velvety yet avoids any coarseness, finishing with ample length and hints of mocha.
92 points, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate (Jun 2025)
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