2000 Pride Mountain Merlot Napa/Sonoma
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Tasting notes
The 2000 Merlot (5,000 cases) is a blend of fruit from Napa (61%) and Sonoma (39%). The dividing line for those two counties transects the Pride Mountain vineyard, hence the confusion about the wines' appellations. This wine offers plenty of sweet black fruits, and an elegant, medium-bodied personality without the grip, depth, and concentration of the 1999 and 1998. To be fair, it had just been bottled when I tasted it. While it is unquestionably an excellent Merlot, it displays the vintage's superficial charm and friendliness, but not much intensity or persistence. Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-6039
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Medium ruby. Highly aromatic nose of black raspberry, minerals, violet and bitter chocolate, with lots of sexy oak tones. Supple on entry, then slightly edgy in the middle, with dark berry and bitter chocolate flavors. Finishes with a hint of unabsorbed acidity and slightly dry tannins.