Reductive on the nose, this bold mountain red is brimming in plum, cranberry and currant, with underlying earthiness that complements in savory cedar and tobacco. High-toned acidity and lifted aromatics provide a balance and brightness that surprises and lengthens the impressive palate.

Refined, rich and powerfully structured flavors of cherry, currant and dried raspberry are tensile, supported by firm acidity and tannins. Ends with a minerally flourish on the firm finish, with notes of savory herbs. Best from 2022 through 2027. 970 cases made.

In general, 2018 was a great vintage for this variety, and the deep purple-hued 2018 Merlot is stunning stuff. Lots of cassis, candied violets, scorched earth, and graphite notes give way to a medium to full-bodied, beautifully textured, elegant 2018 with polished tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. It's going to evolve for 15 years or more.

The 2018 Merlot is full of savory, mineral intensity that is so distinctive. Black cherry, graphite, dried herbs, lavender, spice and crushed rocks infuse the 2018 with tons of complexity. Far from an easygoing wine, the La Jota Merlot is a serious red that will benefit from cellaring.