Josh Merlot – Josh Cellars

The Grand Entrance

Introduction: 2021 Josh Merlot

Welcome to the captivating world of the 2021 Josh Merlot, a distinguished expression of this classic grape varietal. Originating from California’s acclaimed wine regions, this merlot showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and deep-rooted passion that Josh Cellars puts into each bottle. Ideal for both casual and formal occasions, the 2021 Josh Merlot offers an intriguing blend of rich fruit flavors, earthy tones, and well-balanced tannins, making it a go-to choice for wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Table of Contents

Unveiling the Star of the Show

Behind the Bottle: 2021 Josh Merlot

The story of the 2021 Josh Merlot is a tale of dedication, skill, and a keen understanding of terroir. Crafted under the experienced hands of the Josh Cellars winemaking team, this Merlot is an homage to the brand’s founder, Joseph Carr, who envisioned wines that embody the ideal balance between new-world innovation and old-world sensibilities. The wine itself is made using hand-selected grapes from vineyards across California, each contributing a unique character to the blend. Employing both modern and traditional winemaking techniques, the wine is aged in carefully chosen oak barrels, imparting nuances of vanilla and spice that complement its intrinsic flavors. With its memorable palate and exceptional depth, the 2021 Josh Merlot is a testament to what happens when good fruit meets great craftsmanship.

Nitty-Gritty Details

Core Facts: 2021 Josh Merlot

• Type of Wine: Red
• Grape Variety: 100% Merlot
• Region: Various vineyards across California
• Alcohol Content: 13.5%
• Volume: 750ml
• Aging: Aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels
• Vintage: 2021
• Serving Temperature: 60-65°F (15-18°C)
• Price: $15 – $20

Sipping Through Time: A 5-Year Journey

Vintage Overview: 2021 Josh Merlot

The 2021 vintage is the latest standout in the history of California winemaking. To fully appreciate its characteristics, it’s essential to look back at the preceding five years, each with its own challenges and triumphs that have collectively shaped the wines produced in this region.

• 2021: The growing season started with a dry winter, followed by a cool spring, which delayed bud break. However, the summer was warm and dry, which helped the grapes to ripen evenly. The 2021 Josh Merlot is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the vineyards. It exhibits a beautiful balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins, making it a versatile and enjoyable wine.
• 2020: This year was marked by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected labor and resources. Additionally, wildfires posed challenges in certain regions. Despite these hurdles, the Merlots from this vintage are characterized by their robust flavors and smooth tannins.
• 2019: This vintage was characterized by a cool, wet winter followed by a mild summer. These conditions allowed for a longer growing season, which resulted in wines with more complexity and aromatic intensity.
• 2018: A relatively mild and steady growing season resulted in a larger than average crop of high-quality grapes. The Merlots from this year are known for their balanced acidity and ripe, juicy flavors.
• 2017: This year was marked by a series of heatwaves and wildfires that affected many vineyards in California. Despite these challenges, vintners were able to produce wines with good concentration and structure. Merlots from this year are generally well-structured with intense flavors.

In summary, the vintages leading up to the 2021 Josh Merlot have each contributed to the resilience and quality of California vineyards. The 2021 vintage itself is a beautiful culmination, exhibiting a balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins that makes it a versatile and enjoyable wine.

The Wizards of the Wine

Winemaker’s Legacy: 2021 Josh Merlot

The winemaking philosophy at Josh Cellars revolves around producing approachable, full-flavored wines that showcase the varietal characteristics. The winemaker’s legacy for the 2021 Josh Merlot is to encapsulate the balance of rich, fruit-forward flavors with elegant structure. A meticulous approach to winemaking, including sustainable vineyard practices and minimal intervention during the fermentation process, allows the Merlot grape’s nuances to shine, resulting in a wine that is both complex and highly drinkable. The 2021 vintage carries forward this legacy by offering a Merlot that aims to please both the casual consumer and the discerning oenophile.

The Ground Game: Roots and Routes

Vineyard Insights/Terroir Tales: 2021 Josh Merlot

The grapes for the 2021 Josh Merlot are sourced from select vineyards across California, each contributing distinct characteristics that collectively produce a well-rounded, expressive Merlot. These vineyards are primarily located in regions that provide the perfect blend of sunshine, temperature, and soil composition for the Merlot grape to thrive. In these favorable settings, the vineyards maintain a sustainable approach to grape cultivation, ensuring not just the quality of the wine but also the long-term health of the land.

The terroir for this wine shows its influence most evidently in the wine’s balance between fruitiness and acidity. The vineyards situated in warmer climates contribute ripe, jammy fruit notes, while the ones in cooler areas add a touch of acidity and elegance to the overall blend. The result is a Merlot that is as complex as it is approachable, truly reflecting the variegated landscapes from which it originates.

Merlots & Milestones

Cultural Context/Historical Significance: 2021 Josh Merlot

The 2021 Josh Merlot carries the legacy of the winery’s founder, Joseph Carr, a second-generation sommelier who established Josh Cellars as a tribute to his father, Josh. The winery itself has always aimed to create wines that are both high in quality and accessible, embodying the everyday excellence that Josh, a war veteran and family man, stood for.

Merlot, as a varietal, has had a storied history, especially in the United States. In the early 2000s, it faced a decline in popularity, partly due to the negative portrayal of the grape in the movie “Sideways.” However, in recent years, Merlot has been experiencing a renaissance of sorts, as winemakers and consumers alike rediscover its versatility and potential for depth and complexity.

The 2021 Josh Merlot stands as a testament to this resurgence, offering a modern take on this classic varietal. It is a wine that appeals to both the casual drinker and the seasoned connoisseur, reflecting the cultural shift towards appreciating the grape’s intrinsic qualities and its potential to produce wines that are both approachable and sophisticated. The wine embodies the spirit of resilience and innovation, much like the character of Josh, for whom the winery is named.

Sips & Giggles

Historical Tidbits & Anecdotes: 2021 Josh Merlot

The history behind the 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars is imbued with personal stories and a mission to bring high-quality wines to the public. Josh Cellars was founded by Joseph Carr, a former sommelier and wine industry executive, who named the winery in honor of his father, Josh. The senior Carr was not just a father but a hero and a mentor, serving his country as a soldier and later working as a skilled laborer. The winery aims to capture Josh’s robust spirit, love for family, and uncompromising standards.

The 2021 vintage came after a challenging year marked by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, this adversity resonated with the tenacious spirit that the winery and its founder uphold, making the wine all the more special.

An interesting tidbit about the Merlot grape variety: it is one of the most ancient varietals, with origins dating back to Roman times. In the New World, particularly in California, Merlot gained popularity in the late 20th century before facing a decline. The 2021 Josh Merlot stands as a beautiful example of the varietal’s comeback, and this resurgence has brought new life to the stories and dinners where this wine is shared.

Another fun fact is that Merlot is known for its ‘friendliness,’ being one of the few red wines that many sommeliers will recommend for a wide variety of foods. The 2021 Josh Merlot embodies this versatility, making it a go-to choice for many different occasions and a wide array of meals.

In sum, the 2021 Josh Merlot is not just another bottle of wine; it is a bottle filled with stories, history, and the indomitable spirit of its namesake, Josh.

Star-Studded Sips

Wine Awards and Ratings: 2021 Josh Merlot

Josh Cellars has consistently produced high-quality wines that receive accolades from both critics and consumers. The 2021 Merlot, although a new vintage, is already gaining attention for its balanced flavors and drinkability.

“Green” Grapes

Sustainability Practices: 2021 Josh Merlot

Josh Cellars has been progressively moving towards sustainable viticulture practices, aligning itself with a more eco-friendly vision. The vineyards from which the grapes for the 2021 Merlot are harvested are managed with an eye for sustainability. Here are some ways the winery is committed to sustainable wine production:

• Water Management: Utilization of drip irrigation systems to minimize water waste.
• Soil Health: Cover crops are used in the off-season to prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure.
• Pest Management: Limited use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, focusing instead on organic and natural alternatives.
• Energy Efficiency: Use of solar panels to partially power the winery operations.
• Recycling and Composting: Active programs to recycle glass, plastic, and organic waste.
• Employee Training: Ongoing education for vineyard and winery staff on sustainable practices.

While not fully organic or biodynamic, the approach leans towards minimizing the winery’s environmental footprint. These practices also reflect a broader trend in the wine industry to adopt more sustainable methods of production.

The Flavor Frontier

Tasting Notes: 2021 Josh Merlot

The 2021 Josh Merlot is a sophisticated, well-balanced wine that reflects the quality and craftsmanship that Josh Cellars has become known for. Below are the distinct notes you can expect:

Appearance

The wine greets you with a rich ruby color, almost verging on garnet, hinting at its depth and complexity.

Aroma

On the nose, you’re met with inviting scents of black cherries, ripe plums, and subtle hints of vanilla and cocoa.

Palate

Upon tasting, the fruit-forwardness continues with luscious flavors of dark fruit like blackberries and cherries. These are complemented by traces of mocha, spice, and tobacco.

Texture

The wine has a medium to full body with a silky-smooth texture that is both lush and satisfying.

Finish

It concludes with a long, velvety finish that leaves traces of dried fruit and a touch of leather, encouraging you to take another sip.

This Merlot is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own but also has the structure and balance to pair exceptionally well with a variety of foods. Overall, it’s a wine that is not just easy to drink but also easy to appreciate, thanks to its layered flavors and well-integrated tannins.

Merlot Meets the Menu

Food Pairings: 2021 Josh Merlot

The 2021 Josh Merlot is a versatile wine that pairs excellently with a range of foods, making it a wonderful addition to any meal or gathering. Here are some food pairings that can complement this wine’s unique characteristics:

Red Meat

A classic steak or beef tenderloin would be a superb pairing, highlighting the wine’s depth and complexity.

Poultry and Pork

Try it with herb-marinated chicken or a juicy pork roast. The wine’s fruit-forward notes will complement the natural flavors of these meats.

Pasta and Italian Dishes

The lush fruit flavors and well-balanced acidity of this Merlot make it an ideal companion for pasta dishes with tomato-based sauces or creamy Alfredo.

Vegetarian Options

The wine’s medium body and varied flavor profile also allow it to pair well with meatless options like stuffed mushrooms or eggplant Parmesan.

Cheese

Blue cheese, Camembert, or even sharp cheddar can serve as excellent accompaniments, bringing out the fruitiness and balancing the tannins in the wine.

Dessert

For those who enjoy wine with dessert, consider pairing this Merlot with dark chocolate or chocolate-based desserts for a harmonious finish to your meal.

Remember, the best pairing is one that you’ll enjoy, so feel free to experiment and find what suits your palate.

Old School Bravado

Seal & Sentiment: 2021 Josh Merlot

The 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars comes with a traditional cork closure, enhancing the wine’s classic appeal. The use of a cork seal not only resonates with traditional wine enthusiasts but also allows for a small amount of oxygen to interact with the wine, which can help in the aging process.

The sentiment behind this choice speaks volumes about Josh Cellars’ commitment to crafting wines that can stand the test of time. While screw tops are increasingly popular for their convenience, the cork seal in this Merlot adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for both casual sipping and special occasions.

Whether you’re gifting this wine or enjoying it yourself, the cork seal adds an extra layer of ritual to the wine-opening experience. There’s something timeless about the pop of a cork that sets the tone for the moments that follow.

In essence, the cork seal encapsulates the wine’s essence—traditional yet accessible, offering a taste of luxury that’s attainable for everyday wine lovers.

The Art of Pourfection

Serving Tips: 2021 Josh Merlot

1. Temperature: The 2021 Josh Merlot is best enjoyed at a temperature between 60-65°F (15-18°C). Chilling the bottle for about 20 minutes in the fridge before serving can bring it to the perfect temperature.
2. Decanting: For young reds like this, decanting for 30 minutes to an hour can help soften the tannins and allow the flavors to come alive. If you don’t have a decanter, simply opening the bottle an hour before serving will do.
3. Glassware: Opt for a glass with a large bowl, like a Bordeaux glass, to allow the wine to aerate and help concentrate the aromas towards the top of the glass.
4. Pouring: A standard serving of wine is about 5 ounces. Pour slowly to avoid disturbing any potential sediment, especially if the bottle has been stored on its side.
5. Pairing: Serve with food that complements the wine’s rich flavors. Red meats, hearty pastas, or even grilled vegetables work well with Merlot.
6. Closing: If you don’t finish the bottle, a wine stopper can help keep the wine fresh for another 3–5 days when stored in a cool, dark place.
7. Enhance the Experience: Consider using a wine aerator for an even smoother taste, or adding a garnish of a small citrus twist or a cherry for a playful touch.

Remember, these serving tips are guidelines, not rules. The most important thing is to enjoy your wine the way you like it. Cheers!

Seasons of Wine: When to Uncork

Seasonal Recommendations: 2021 Josh Merlot

Spring:

1. Easter Feasts: The 2021 Josh Merlot pairs excellently with lamb dishes, making it a great choice for Easter celebrations.
2. Spring Picnics: Pack a bottle with your charcuterie board and enjoy the new blooms outdoors.

Summer:

1. Grilling Season: This wine’s versatility makes it a good companion for various grilled meats, especially burgers and steaks.
2. Summer Salads: Try it with salads that include protein like grilled chicken or steak strips.

Fall:

1. Thanksgiving: This Merlot’s rich flavors stand up well to hearty fall dishes, including roast turkey and gravy.
2. Fall Harvest: Pairs beautifully with dishes featuring seasonal ingredients like butternut squash or pumpkin.

Winter:

1. Holiday Celebrations: The wine’s richness complements traditional holiday fare, making it a great choice for festive meals.
2. Comfort Foods: Excellent with hearty stews and casseroles, making it a go-to for winter comfort food pairings.

No matter the season, the 2021 Josh Merlot offers versatility and elegance that can elevate any occasion. Cheers!

Time in a Bottle

Aging Potential: 2021 Josh Merlot

The 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars exhibits qualities that suggest it has good aging potential, particularly for a wine at its price point.

Short-Term Aging (1-3 years):

If consumed within the first couple of years, you’ll enjoy more of the youthful fruit characteristics—think ripe plum, cherries, and a touch of blackberry—along with softer tannins.

Medium-Term Aging (3-5 years):

With a few more years in the bottle, the wine will likely develop more complex aromas and flavors, including hints of tobacco, leather, and spice, while maintaining its fruit-forward nature.

It is important to store the wine properly to ensure it ages well. A temperature-controlled environment, lying the bottle on its side to keep the cork moist, and limited light exposure are all key factors in its aging potential.

For those who appreciate the nuances that come with age, allowing this Merlot to sit for a few years will offer a more complex and enriched wine experience.

Wineology 101

Wine Glossary/Terminology Used: 2021 Josh Merlot

To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2021 Josh Merlot, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with some key wine terms that are relevant to this particular vintage.

Tannins:

These are natural compounds found in grapes (as well as other plants) that contribute to the structure, complexity, and aging potential of the wine. In the context of this Merlot, the tannins are moderate and well-integrated.

Fruit-Forward:

This term refers to wines where the primary flavors are fruity. The 2021 Josh Merlot showcases notes of black cherry, plum, and raspberry.

Terroir:

A French term that refers to the natural environment where the grapes are grown, including factors like soil, climate, and topography. Terroir can deeply influence the flavor profile of a wine.

Tertiary Notes:

These are flavors and aromas that develop as a wine ages, including earthy, spicy, and sometimes gamey notes. Over time, this Merlot could develop tertiary characteristics like leather, tobacco, or even truffle.

Medium-Bodied:

This term is used to describe the weight or thickness of the wine on the palate. The 2021 Josh Merlot is medium-bodied, making it versatile for a variety of food pairings.

Vintage:

The year the grapes were harvested. In the case of this wine, the vintage is 2021, which informs us about the general conditions and qualities to expect from grapes harvested in that year.

Cork vs. Screw Cap:

This wine comes with a cork, which has implications for its aging potential and also comes with a traditional sentiment attached to it.

Decanting:

The act of pouring wine from its bottle into another container to allow it to “breathe” or aerate. Given the youthful nature of this 2021 Merlot, decanting can open up its flavors.

Balanced:

This term refers to the harmonious relationship between the wine’s acidity, sugar, tannins, and alcohol. A balanced wine like the 2021 Josh Merlot will not have any one element overpowering the others.

Understanding these terms will enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of this 2021 Josh Merlot, allowing you to engage in deeper conversations about its qualities.

Sip Siblings

Similar Wines: 2021 Josh Merlot

If you enjoyed the 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars, you might also find these wines of interest. They offer comparable characteristics like being fruit-forward, medium-bodied, and balanced:

1. Decoy Merlot, Sonoma County: A California wine like Josh, but with a slightly more nuanced palate featuring dark fruit and a hint of chocolate.
2. Columbia Crest H3 Merlot, Horse Heaven Hills: From Washington State, this wine also captures a lush, fruit-forward profile but introduces a touch of herbal complexity.
3. Rodney Strong Merlot, Sonoma County: A Sonoma wine, Rodney Strong’s Merlot offers a ripe fruit character along with a smooth, velvety finish.
4. 14 Hands Merlot, Washington State: This Merlot is known for its approachability and deep fruit flavors, similar to the Josh Merlot but with a touch more spice.
5. Ravenswood Vintners Blend Merlot, California: A budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, with cherry and plum notes underscored by a smooth finish.
6. Chateau Ste. Michelle Merlot, Columbia Valley: This Washington State wine offers a balance of fruit and tannin, along with subtle oak influences.
7. Meiomi Pinot Noir, California: Though it’s a Pinot Noir and not a Merlot, its fruit-forward and balanced style can appeal to those who enjoy the 2021 Josh Merlot.
8. Rutherford Hill Merlot, Napa Valley: If you’re willing to splurge a bit, this Napa Valley Merlot offers complex flavors and a long finish that stands up to the Josh Cellars example.
9. Wente Sandstone Merlot, Livermore Valley: Known for its soft tannins and notes of black cherry, this is another Californian Merlot that closely aligns with the taste profile of the 2021 Josh Merlot.
10. Ferrari-Carano Merlot, Sonoma County: With its lush mouthfeel and flavors of dark fruits and spices, this wine is a step up in complexity but shares the same approachable profile.

Exploring these wines can offer you a broader perspective on the characteristics and nuances that make Merlot such a versatile and enjoyable varietal.

The Grape Beyond

Legacy and Future: 2021 Josh Merlot

Legacy

The 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars carries on the legacy of an already well-established brand that has always focused on delivering quality wines at accessible price points. Since its inception, the winery has been committed to crafting wines that are both approachable for the everyday consumer and respected by connoisseurs. This particular vintage continues to echo that mission, showcasing the essential characteristics that have made Merlot a beloved varietal: its plush, fruity profile, balanced acidity, and velvety tannins.

Future

As the wine industry continues to evolve, Josh Cellars appears poised to adapt and innovate. With the rising interest in sustainable practices, we can expect future vintages to possibly focus more intensively on eco-friendly viticulture and winemaking techniques. Additionally, there’s a trend of consumers seeking “food-friendly” wines, and Merlot, with its balanced profile, fits that demand perfectly. The 2021 vintage serves as a benchmark for what we can anticipate in the future—wines that are balanced, fruit-forward, and crafted with an eye towards both quality and accessibility.

Innovation and Adaptation

With the advent of new technologies and research, we may also see the introduction of unique blends or variations, adding another layer to the already complex and delightful experience of Josh Merlot. Whether it’s experimenting with different aging techniques or introducing limited-edition batches that incorporate unique grape varieties, the future is bright for this steadfast brand.

In summary, the 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars not only celebrates its enduring legacy but also serves as a promising indicator of a forward-thinking future. Cheers to the vintages yet to come!

Where to Buy 2021 Josh Merlot

Procure Your Pour:

Online Retailers:

• Wine.com – Nationwide shipping, offering various discounts.
• Josh Cellars Official Website – Direct from the source, with the option for club memberships.
• Total Wine & More – Also offers in-store pickup.

Local Wine Shops:

You can also find 2021 Josh Merlot at specialized wine retailers. It’s always a good idea to support local businesses!

Supermarkets:

Many upscale supermarkets with wine sections will carry Josh Cellars wines. Look out for them at stores like Whole Foods, Safeway, and Kroger.

Approximate Price Point:

The 2021 Josh Merlot typically retails for around $15-$20 per bottle, depending on the retailer and location.

Bulk Orders:

For larger events or if you’re a serious fan, consider buying by the case. Some retailers offer a discount for bulk purchases.

Special Promotions:

Keep an eye on seasonal promotions or holiday specials, which could offer a great opportunity to stock up.

Procuring a bottle or a case of the 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars is as easy as a few clicks or a short trip to your local wine retailer. Cheers!

Raves & Reviews: What Sippers Say

User Reviews/Testimonials: 2021 Josh Merlot

Emily, 33, San Francisco, CA:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Absolutely love the 2021 Josh Merlot! It’s become my go-to wine for dinner parties. It pairs so well with a variety of foods, and my guests always love it!”

Mark, 47, Boston, MA:

⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A solid Merlot at a reasonable price. It’s got the dark fruit flavors I look for and a nice, smooth finish. It’s become a staple in my wine rack.”

Sophia, 26, Dallas, TX:

⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I’m usually more of a white wine person, but this Merlot made me reconsider. It’s smooth and not too heavy. Perfect for a summer evening!”

Anthony, 55, New York, NY:

⭐⭐⭐
“It’s a good Merlot but not exceptional. I enjoyed it, but I think it lacks a bit of complexity. However, for the price point, it’s pretty decent.”

Rachel, 40, Seattle, WA:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I bought a case after trying just one bottle. It’s that good! It’s become my favorite weeknight wine, but it’s also elegant enough for special occasions.”

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet evening, the 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars has received praise for its versatility, flavor profile, and value for money. Cheers to finding your new favorite Merlot!

Heard it Through the Grapevine

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 2021 Josh Merlot

Q: Where is this Merlot sourced from?

A: The grapes for the 2021 Josh Merlot are sourced from select vineyards across California, ensuring a balanced and expressive profile.

Q: What foods pair well with this Merlot?

A: This wine pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to pasta and even some lighter fare like grilled vegetables. Check out our Food Pairings section

Q: Is this wine organic or sustainably produced?

A: While not certified organic, Josh Cellars focuses on sustainable viticulture practices to maintain the health of the vines and the quality of the grapes.

Q: How long can I age this wine?

A: The 2021 Josh Merlot is ready to drink now but can also be aged for up to 1-5 years to develop additional complexity.

Q: What type of oak is used in the aging process?

A: The wine is aged in a combination of American and French oak barrels, which impart subtle spice and vanilla notes to the wine.

Q: What is the alcohol content?

A: The 2021 Josh Merlot has an alcohol content of 13.5%.

Q: Does it have a cork or a screw-top?

A: The 2021 Josh Merlot comes with a traditional cork, adding a classic touch to your wine experience.

Q: Can I buy this wine online?

A: Yes, the 2021 Josh Merlot is available for purchase through various online retailers. Check out our Procure Your Pour section

Q: What temperature should I serve this wine at?

A: For optimal enjoyment, it’s recommended to serve this Merlot at around 60-65°F (15-18°C).

Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a newcomer, we hope these FAQs help you enjoy the 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars to the fullest!

Is the 2021 Josh Merlot a good wine?

The Critic’s Verdict:

The 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars is a true testament to the winemaking prowess that has become synonymous with the brand. Its balanced composition and compelling flavor profile make it a stand-out offering in a year that has seen its share of challenges in the vineyards.

On the nose, the wine captivates with its evocative notes of dark fruit, subtle hints of spice, and a whiff of vanilla, a complexity undoubtedly achieved through careful aging in a blend of American and French oak barrels. The palate does not disappoint, delivering flavors of plum, black cherry, and traces of chocolate, underpinned by soft tannins and a long, satisfying finish.

Though not strictly organic, the winery’s dedication to sustainable practices is commendable and subtly evident in the glass. The Merlot is versatile, easy to pair, and benefits from serving at a temperature of around 60-65°F (15-18°C) to unlock its full spectrum of flavors. While accessible and enjoyable now, this wine also holds promise for those willing to age it, adding another dimension to its already multifaceted character.

In a crowded field of California Merlots, this wine manages to hold its own, demonstrating a rare blend of quality and affordability. For those seeking an expressive yet approachable Merlot that can stand up to both casual and special occasions, the 2021 Josh Merlot from Josh Cellars is a wise and rewarding choice.