97 Points James Suckling
This super-concentrated Merlot is brimming with blueberry, bilberry and bitter-chocolate aromas. Plush tannins provide a deep and firm foundation for the rich body. Impressive now, but with the structure for long aging. Drink or hold.
 
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck
Mostly estate fruit, the 2016 Merlot spent 22 months in primarily new French oak. Black cherries, smoked earth, graphite, dark chocolate, and licorice notes all emerge from this rich, full-bodied, concentrated Merlot that has subtle background oak but displays a supple, seamless balance style that’s a joy to drink.
 
93 Points Wine Spectator
Hedonistic, featuring dark plum, kirsch and cherry tart flavors that are lavishly oaked. Shows a plush texture throughout, with creamy notes and a long finish filled with dark chocolate, mocha and Asian spice details. Drink now through 2023.
 
93 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A blend of 97% Merlot, 2% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 Merlot is very deep garnet-purple colored and offers exuberant notions of crushed red and black plums, warm blackberries and Indian spices with hints of cardamom, sautéed herbs, garrigue and dusty soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers mouth-filling plum-laced flavors with a velvety frame and loads of freshness on the long, spicy finish.
 
Winemaker Notes
The 2016 Pahlmeyer Merlot opens with complex aromas of blueberry and boysenberry lifted with fresh hints of cardamom, anise and Herbs de Provence. The deep fruit flavors carry over the palate, with subtle notes of forest floor, crushed tomatoes, and oregano. Soft, supple, elegant tannins provide the kind of structure that will help this wine age beautifully.
 
Blend: 96.5% Merlot, 2.5% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Sauvignon