Raymond Vineyards, founded in 1974, is one of the Napa Valley’s pioneers and great estates. Arriving to Napa in 1933, the Raymond family became deeply connected to the valley’s winemaking origins. In 1970, they established a 90-acre estate in Rutherford that now comprises 300 acres in Rutherford, St. Helena, and Jameson Canyon. Five generations of the Raymond family created a Napa icon, with an enduring reputation for elegant wines with a beautiful balance of finesse, power, and complexity. Today, inspired by the vision of Proprietor Jean-Charles Boisset, Raymond is a dynamic destination dedicated to inspiring its guests’ passion for fine wine in an environment of exploration, creativity, and elegant whimsicality, where each in a series of diverse experiences progresses visitors into another world of discovery and exceptional wines. Further, Raymond’s Rutherford and St. Helena estate vineyards are certified organic and Biodynamic, and 100% of the winery’s power comes from renewable solar energy.

Vintage 2019

Heavy spring rains enriched the soils and delayed bud break by a few weeks. A heat spike in June, followed by warm weather, brought even verasion throughout the vineyards. A cooling trend and touch of rain in mid-September created ideal conditions for the 2019 harvest which is considered a near-perfect vintage.

Winemaking

The grapes for this 2019 Napa Valley Reserve Merlot were harvested between September 24 and October 19 from seven vineyards across Napa Valley including Youtnville and Oak Knoll, which adds texture to the wine, while the fruit from St. Helena and Calistoga impart a richness and brightness. The grapes went through extended maceration before aging for 19 months in 19% new French oak before being bottled unfiltered.

Tasting notes

A dark purple in the glass, aromas of black cherry and blueberry compote greet the nose. Flavors of mocha, chocolate and spice spread across the plush palate with suggestions of menthol and spice cake. Full-bodied with juicy tannins, the finish has a nice little spice to it.