Bernard Portet’s original winemaking tenets of balance, elegance and complexity still guide Clos Du Val’s winemaking pursuits today, including this oak-aged, jammy Napa Valley Merlot. With a deep ruby and garnet color, the wine’s nose is packed with ripe plums and blueberries, with subtle notes of blackcurrant. Integrated toast aromas add to the complexity of the nose. The wine’s lush entry leads to a voluminous mid-palate structure. The ripe fruit excites the senses as the finish draws to a lengthy and rich close.

A dry, smooth Merlot that hews to the Clos du Val style of lean fruit. The cherry, mocha and cedar flavors have an edge of dried herbs and tobacco. Drink this elegant wine now and through 2014.