Native to France's Bordeaux appellation, merlot brings forth smooth wines with plush, ripe fruits. The real magic happens when merlot is blended with the more tannic and earthy cabernet sauvignon. These grapes have complementary characteristics that fit together like puzzle pieces, making the finished wines greater than the sum of their parts, just like today's feature. What could be better? 

Enter Markham Vineyards. This fixture of the California wine scene has stayed on top of its game since its inception in the 1940s because of its unwavering dedication to merlot; the winery showcases its beauty through the various terroirs of the Napa Valley and other North Coast appellations. 

Today's merlot comes from vineyards throughout the North Coast and is blended with 14% cabernet sauvignon to add depth and structure. Full-bodied and silky-textured, it is resplendent with aromas of black fruits and flavors of blackberry jam, raspberry compote, and black cherries, with hints of cocoa emerging on the long finish.