What is this wine?
Keenan Winery, located on Spring Mountain in Napa Valley, has been producing Bordeaux-style wines since the late 1970s. The estate vineyards, planted at high elevation on volcanic soils, provide cooler conditions that give freshness and structure to otherwise ripe Napa fruit. The 2021 Merlot is sourced primarily from estate vineyards, with small portions from select Napa Valley sites, aged in French oak for balance and depth.
Why get this wine?
Keenan is one of Napa’s most respected producers of Merlot, showing how serious and structured the variety can be in the right terroir. In a vintage as highly regarded as 2021, this wine offers both power and elegance, making it a standout alternative to more expensive Napa Cabernets while still carrying pedigree and aging potential.
What does this wine taste like?
Rich yet balanced, with black cherry, plum, and blackberry layered over cocoa, cedar, and savory spice. Supple tannins and fresh acidity from the mountain fruit give structure and lift, finishing long and refined.
When should you drink this wine?
Delicious now with a short decant, but capable of aging gracefully through 2035. Perfect with roast duck, braised short ribs, mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses.