For 45 years, Markham Vineyards has been a Napa Valley leader in world‑class Bordeaux varietals, with Merlot at the core of everything they do. Their sustainably farmed 260 acres span some of Napa’s most distinctive AVAs, allowing each wine to express the character of its home. “Merlot is the flagship wine here at Markham,” says winemaker Kimberlee Nicholls, whose commitment to the land shines through every bottle. From decades of responsible farming to a deep respect for Napa’s heritage, Markham crafts wines that honor the past while celebrating the discoveries still to come.
When Kim began her career three decades ago, she was one of the first female winemakers in the Napa Valley. Today, women winemakers in Napa Valley still only represent 12% of the total, and Kim remains among the very few who specialize in Merlot.
The Estate Vineyards provide the backbone to this vibrant Napa Valley Merlot. Aromas of ripe raspberry and plum jam emerge from the glass, enhanced by caramel notes from oak aging. A bright entry of red fruit flavors balanced by stunning minerality and notes of rich, velvety chocolate-covered cherries. A “Cab-Lovers” Merlot with structure, mid-palate weight, and a long, round finish.
95 Tasting Panel This estate-grown Merlot from the winery's Marked Parcel series is influenced by the San Pablo Bay, whose cooling effect mitigates overripeness while bringing out more savory tones. Aromas of tobacco and underbrush are accented by deep, concentrated black cherry, and on the palate, orange peel, pine, and cinnamon stick align with velvet tannins.
91 James Suckling Notes of dark berries, dried cherries, licorice and dark chocolate. Medium- to full-bodied, spiced and dark-fruited with chalky, slightly dry tannins. Succulent finish. A little earthy at the end.
90 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Part of the District Series, Markham's 2021 Merlot Oakville features tomato-edged cherries, loamy earth and subtle notes of dried spices. It's medium- to full-bodied, expansive and rounded upfront, then tapers quickly to a crisp, tart-edged finish framed by soft tannins.
90 Wine Enthusiast A juicy palate of cherries and plums drizzled with chocolate and accents of violet candy and herbs make this an intriguing Merlot. A lightly grippy palate persists with a palate-cleansing finish.
