Frog's Leap Rutherford, Napa Valley Merlot 2022

Extravagant plum fruit aromas enriched by the lush flavors that Merlot is famous for. Grown in cool clay soils, this wine shows why some of the rarest wines in the world start with Merlot.

A part of the Frog’s Leap family since 1990, Merlot is one of the most complex wines that they make —- and one of the most rewarding. The variety is a paradox: a red wine that is capable of tremendous power and complexity, but one that requires a softer, subtler approach to unlock its full potential. Achieving this balancing act is the core intent of their Merlot winegrowing. 

Central to the task is proper site selection and careful viticulture. The right mixture of clay and gravel is essential to balance Merlot’s natural vigor while promoting deep roots, but this harmony only exists on about ten percent of their acreage –- the Merlot has the smallest production of Frog's Leap's core wines.

After striking this balance in the vineyard, the task in the cellar requires no special tricks —- just appropriate restraint with extraction during fermentation and in the use of new oak. Merlot’s full charm is only slowly revealed —- it’s the tortoise to Zin or Cabernet’s hare. The reward for this effort is something special: power and refinement; rich plum, black cherry and sage aromas with an endless, supple texture. There really is nothing quite like it.

Since 1981 Frog's Leap has sought to make wines of intent in Napa Valley, and they are proud to have two generations (of several families) working side by side in their vineyards and cellar. Their winemaking approach reflects many old world techniques. Beginning with a deep and abiding emphasis on viticulture, they also favor natural yeast fermentations, minimal use of S02, restricted use of finings or filtrations, no supplemental additions or flavoring agents.

First certified by California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) in 1988, Frog’s Leap has chosen to farm organically for nearly four decades, secure in the knowledge that healthy soils produce healthy vines, and that healthy vines produce vibrant, flavorful fruit.