Napa Valley native and winemaker, Tony Coltrin, brings more than 40 years of winemaking experience to Oberon, with expertise in sourcing quality fruit from the best vineyards in the valley and understanding the region’s uniqueness for growing classic Bordeaux varieties. His long-standing relationships with local growers ensure a consistency in the quality of the grapes grown in premier Napa sub-appellations for Oberon.

To naturally soften tannins and enhance varietal complexity, Tony allowed the grapes to undergo extended maceration. He then pressed the wine and transferred it to French oak barrels (45% new oak) to undergo a long malolactic fermentation for roundness and depth. Using Syrah and Zinfandel as blenders, adds a dark velvety feel to the lush berry flavor profile of the Merlot. Dense black fruit aromas are followed by blueberry and chocolate flavors, and supple tannins on the palate. 87.3% Merlot, 9.7% Syrah, 3.0% Zinfandel.

To create Oberon Merlot, Tony sourced grapes from Napa Valley’s renowned Oakville district. The deeper alluvial soils along with the perfect balance of cool mornings and warm afternoons make this are the perfect location for growing Bordeaux varietals. Tony sources Syrah from Dry Creek Valley and Zinfandel from Middletown specifically for this blend as they marry beautifully with this Merlot and bring out the rich character of this delicious expressive Oakville fruit.

This wine is a classic example of Napa Valley Merlot as it offers beautifully ripened and styled red and black currant aromas and flavors, and just a hint of wood in the background. Pair its richness with a grilled ribeye, stew or mature cheeses.