Introduction
The 2021 Markham Vineyards Merlot Six Stack from California’s North Coast is a smooth and approachable red that showcases the soft, fruit-forward nature of Merlot while capturing the character of the North Coast region. Markham Vineyards, an iconic Napa Valley winery with a long history, is known for its commitment to producing balanced, high-quality wines. The "Six Stack" Merlot is a blend of grapes sourced from multiple vineyard sites across the North Coast AVA, designed to bring out Merlot’s plush texture, ripe fruit, and subtle spice.

Terrior
The North Coast AVA encompasses several renowned sub-regions, including Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties. This area benefits from a cool coastal influence that moderates the warm, sunny days, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly while retaining acidity. The soils are a mix of clay, loam, and gravel, which contribute to the wine’s structured tannins and mineral undertones. This diverse terroir helps bring complexity to the wine, enhancing the plush fruit and adding layers of depth.

Appearance
In the glass, the wine shows a rich, dark ruby color with purple reflections, indicative of its youth and vibrancy. The clarity is excellent, with a moderate viscosity that suggests a balanced structure and smooth texture.

Nose
The nose is expressive, with ripe aromas of black cherry, plum, and blueberry. These primary fruit aromas are accompanied by hints of cocoa, vanilla, and baking spices from oak aging. Subtle earthy undertones, along with a touch of dried herbs, give the wine added complexity, making it both inviting and aromatic.

Palate
On the palate, the Six Stack Merlot is medium to full-bodied with a soft, velvety texture. The flavors echo the nose, featuring lush black fruit such as blackberry and plum, along with layers of dark chocolate and espresso. The tannins are smooth and well-integrated, providing structure without overpowering the fruit. The balanced acidity enhances the freshness of the wine, keeping it lively and inviting.

Finish
The finish is long and supple, with lingering flavors of dark fruit, mocha, and a hint of spice. The soft tannins and balanced acidity leave a smooth and polished impression, making this Merlot easy to enjoy now, but also capable of aging gracefully over the next few years.

Overall Impression
The 2021 Markham Vineyards Merlot Six Stack is a versatile, approachable Merlot that combines ripe fruit, subtle oak, and a soft, rounded texture. It’s a well-balanced wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes, such as grilled lamb, mushroom risotto, or pasta with a rich tomato sauce. This Merlot is an excellent choice for both casual sipping and special occasions, offering a classic North Coast profile with depth and refinement.

Published Awards and Recognition
Bronze Medal - North Coast Wine Challenge 2023

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.2%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Markham Vineyards
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: North Coast, California
Grape Varietals: 100% Merlot
Vintage: 2021
Wine Style: Dry Red
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel, aged 10-12 months in French and American oak barrels
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass Bottle
Closure Style: Cork