Joel Gott Wines 2014 Merlot

California, United States

ON $24.95 (479121)

Winemaker Joel Gott’s multi-regional approach makes his portfolio one of California’s most consistent and enjoyable. For instance, there’s a lot to like about the newly released 2014 Merlot, which offers ripe — but not overly so — dark fruit, spice and vanilla aromas and flavours. Made from 100 percent Merlot, with fruit from Paso Robles, Napa Valley and Lodi aged in 25 percent new French oak and 75 percent older American oak. There’s a focused, elegant structure here that makes this simple and expressive Merlot really stand out. Highly recommended.