Bravante Vineyards Estate Howell Mountain Merlot

93 Points, James Suckling. At Bravante Vineyards, we have 2 blocks of merlot, one at each end of our Stoneridge Vineyard.  They both add distinctive facets to our estate grown merlot. At the northern end of the property is Block 1, which is classic merlot- rich, fruity and complex.  At the southern end is Block 5, which is all ‘Howell Mountain’- intense, minerally and structured. Blended together they produce layers of varietal Merlot flavors, dark and concentrated with a firm, structured backbone. Winemaker notes: Our 2013 merlot has intense aromas of cherry and cassis, blended with sage and hints of cedar and pepper. The luscious body has nice firm tannins and flavors of ripe strawberry, raspberry with hints of mineral and oak, and a long supple berry finish. Vibrant plums and berries with a succulent core of fleshy, powerful merlot fruit. There’s a serious edge to the finish. A blend of 90 per cent merlot and 10 per cent cabernet sauvignon. Drink or hold. 91 Points - James Suckling - 11/19/18 Moving to the Merlot releases, the 2013 Merlot checks in as 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon that spent 23 months in barrel. It is a rounded, chewy, concentrated effort that has loads of blackcurrant and chocolate covered black cherry fruits, some earth and underbrush, full body, and a rounded, charming, deliciously textured style. Drink it over the coming decade 90+ Points - Jeb Dunnuck - 1/31/2019