Switchback Ridge Merlot 2014

This continues to be one of the best Merlots coming out of Napa Valley today. Coming from Kelly Peterson's Switchback Ridge vineyard tucked into the eastern Calistoga palisades, Bob Foley continues to make SBR and sources a little fruit from himself for his own wine. "Incredibly bold and lush, this Merlot floods your palate with ripe black fruit, exotic spice, bittersweet cocoa and a hint of vanilla bean. The wine is intense and expressive and has a round and weighty mid-palate supported by velvety tannin structure and lively acidity that leads to a long lasting finish." For the price, you won't find a better Merlot.