Introduction:
The 2022 Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot is a rich and expressive Napa Valley red that blends mountain-grown intensity with polished finesse. This vintage reveals dark berry fruit, savory spice, and structured tannins, showcasing the unique character of high-elevation vineyards straddling both Napa and Sonoma counties.

Terrior:
Grown at elevations of 1,300 to 2,100 feet on the Mayacamas Mountains, the vineyards enjoy a mix of volcanic loam and sedimentary soils. This unique terroir provides excellent drainage, limiting vine vigor and concentrating flavor. The location experiences cooler daytime temperatures and warmer nights than the valley floor, preserving freshness and aromatic lift while allowing full phenolic ripeness. Sustainable viticultural practices and meticulous site selection highlight the mountain terroir in every vintage.

Appearance:
Deep ruby with garnet edges, showing excellent clarity and saturation. The intensity of color reflects the concentration of mountain-grown fruit.

Nose:
Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, and plum lead, followed by graphite, bay leaf, dark chocolate, and hints of sage. Subtle notes of cedar and baking spice emerge with air, offering complexity and depth.

Palate:
Medium to full-bodied with a plush, rounded texture. The palate offers layers of ripe black fruits — blackberry, cassis, and dark plum — integrated with mocha, espresso, and savory herbs. Fresh acidity lifts the richness, while fine-grained tannins provide structure and balance.

Finish:
Long and smooth, with lingering notes of black fruit, cocoa, and mountain herbs. A mineral core and refined tannins frame the finish, suggesting both accessibility and age-worthiness.

Recommended Food Pairings:
Meat Dish: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary, roast pork loin, or beef short ribs with herb jus
Vegetarian Option: Wild mushroom risotto, lentil and root vegetable stew, or grilled eggplant with balsamic glaze
Cheese / Charcuterie Pairing: Aged Manchego, smoked cheddar, aged Gouda, salami, prosciutto, or olive tapenade

Overall Impression:
The 2022 Pride Mountain Vineyards Merlot is a beautifully crafted wine that combines lush fruit with mountain-grown structure and elegance. Its ripe core, savory complexity, and balanced freshness make it a standout Merlot with both immediate appeal and aging potential over the next 8–10 years.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable mountain viticulture with careful canopy and yield management
Producer Name: Pride Mountain Vineyards
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Napa Valley AVA (vineyards span Napa and Sonoma counties)
Grape Varietals: 85% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
Vintage: 2022
Wine Style: Red, Medium to full-bodied, aromatic
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel; aged ~16 months in French oak (40% new)
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Standard wine bottle
Closure Style: Cork