Frequently Asked Questions
Indulge in the richness of Rombauer Napa Valley Merlot, a masterfully crafted wine that epitomizes elegance and depth. This full-bodied Merlot showcases a harmonious blend of ripe black plums, blueberries, and juicy figs on the palate, enhanced by subtle notes of cedar, vanilla, and a touch of baking spices from its 15 months of aging in French oak barrels. A velvety texture and supple tannins give way to a long, satisfying finish, while its balanced acidity ensures versatility, pairing beautifully with dishes like braised lamb or hearty lasagna. With roots in the prized clay soils of Napa Valley, Rombauer's commitment to sustainable winemaking and exceptional quality shines through every sip, making this Merlot a standout choice for any wine enthusiast.
Process & Profile
Rombauer Merlot originates from Napa Valley's Carneros region, renowned for its cool climate and clay-rich soils—ideal for grape cultivation. The conditions allow for slow ripening, preserving the grapes' natural acidity while developing concentrated flavors and supple tannins. The winemaking process includes meticulous grape selection, optical sorting, a cold soak for flavor extraction, and fermentation in both barrels and tanks. This wine is then aged for 15-17 months in French oak barrels, a percentage of which are new, adding depth and complexity. The blend often includes complementary varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot to create a well-rounded profile.Tasting Notes
Rombauer Merlot boasts a vibrant, deep ruby red color and delivers a sensory-rich experience:- Aroma: Expect a bouquet of ripe blackberries, blueberries, plums, and cherries complemented by hints of mocha, vanilla, cedar, and freshly baked pie crust.
- Palate: This medium to full-bodied wine features plush flavors of dark fruits like black cherry and fig, interwoven with subtle notes of mint, cocoa, cinnamon, and a touch of spice. The silky tannins are seamlessly balanced with refreshing acidity, leading to a long and satisfying finish.
What Makes It Special
- Napa Valley Terroir: The Carneros region provides optimal conditions that mirror Bordeaux's Right Bank, perfect for growing premium Merlot grapes.
- Sustainability: Rombauer employs sustainable farming practices and cutting-edge technology to ensure environmentally responsible winemaking.
- Craftsmanship: The dedication to aging in French oak and blending with varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the wine's complexity and smoothness, making it a finely tuned masterpiece.
- Awards and Legacy: Rombauer's reputation as a pioneer in Merlot production since 1983 solidifies its status as a top-tier producer of this varietal.
How to Enjoy
- Pairings: Rombauer Merlot pairs delightfully with grilled meats, hearty stews, pasta in red sauces, and aged cheeses. Its balanced acidity and rich flavors complement both savory and mildly spiced dishes.
- Serving Temperature: For the best experience, serve slightly below room temperature, between 60–65°F (16–18°C).
- Aging Potential: With carefully structured tannins and vibrant acidity, this wine can age gracefully for up to a decade, enhancing its flavors and complexity over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key tasting notes of Rombauer Merlot?
Rombauer Merlot is characterized by ripe black plum, blueberry, and black cherry flavors, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla, pie crust, cedar, and spice. The wine is medium to full-bodied with a soft, velvety texture and well-integrated tannins, offering a long, satisfying finish.
What foods pair well with Rombauer Merlot?
This Merlot pairs excellently with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats like steak or lamb, hearty pasta dishes with red sauce, braised short ribs, and rich stews. For cheese lovers, it complements hard cheeses beautifully.
What is the recommended way to store Rombauer Merlot?
Store the wine in a dark, temperature-controlled environment at approximately 60°F. Avoid exposure to heat, cold, or direct sunlight, which could damage the wine. If traveling with your wine, especially in warm weather, use a cooler to maintain its quality.
How long can Rombauer Merlot be aged?
Rombauer Merlot has a good aging potential and can be cellared for several years under proper conditions. Over time, its flavors and complexity will continue to evolve, making it an excellent option for long-term storage.
What makes Rombauer Merlot unique?
Rombauer Merlot is crafted in Napa Valley, a region known for its ideal growing conditions, including cool climates and clay soils similar to Bordeaux's Right Bank. The winery employs techniques like cold soaking, optical sorting, and aging in French oak barrels, resulting in a rich, balanced wine with layers of dark fruit and subtle oak aromas.
Is Rombauer Merlot dry or sweet?
Rombauer Merlot is a dry wine. It has well-balanced acidity, with ripe fruit flavors that might give a sense of sweetness but no residual sugar remains in the wine.
What is the alcohol content of Rombauer Merlot?
Depending on the vintage, Rombauer Merlot typically has an alcohol content of about 14.5%.
What is the blend in Rombauer Merlot?
While predominantly made from Merlot grapes, some vintages may include small amounts of other varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot to enhance the wine's structure and complexity.
Does Rombauer use sustainable winemaking practices?
Yes, Rombauer Vineyards employs sustainable farming practices tailored to each vineyard block. These practices include advanced techniques like NDVI technology to monitor vineyard health and promote environmental responsibility.
Can I receive Rombauer Merlot shipments in my state?
Wine shipment availability depends on local state laws. Contact Rombauer Vineyards or use the wine locator tool to confirm if shipments can be made to your location.
Do I need to decant Rombauer Merlot before serving?
While not necessary, decanting Rombauer Merlot can enhance its aromas and flavors, especially in younger vintages. Allow the wine to breathe for about 30 minutes before serving.
What is the ideal serving temperature for Rombauer Merlot?
Serve Rombauer Merlot at a temperature of around 60–65°F to fully appreciate its aromas and flavors. Chilling it slightly before serving can help achieve the ideal temperature.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
You may also like
More from Wine | Free + Flat Rate Shipping
Recently viewed
