Opaque depth of red-ruby color, the merlot expresses rich, dark-fruit aromas composed of blackberry, blackcurrant, blueberry, and dark cherry. There is a dark chocolate nuance with integrated spicy oak. Coupled with the rich dark fruit, there is a hint of arugula adding to the complexity. The entry and finish are very smooth with integrated fruit resembling black cherry, the overall balance of fruit, body, tannin, and acidity are impeccable. The rich texture conveys vivid fruit and mocha flavors through a long finish. Enjoy! 85.2 % Merlot, 9.7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2.6% Petit Verdot, 1.4% Cabernet Franc, 1.1% Malbec. Few Napa Valley wineries can rival the rich and storied history of Freemark Abbey. It all began in 1886, when Josephine Tychson established the original winery along Route 29 in St. Helena where Freemark Abbey still stands. She kicked off a history of innovation, becoming one of the first woman winegrowers on record. Though many consider Freemark's library wines a religious experience . . . they've never actually been run by monks. The current name of the winery was created in 1939, when the three owners (Charles Freeman, Markquand Foster, and Abbey Ahern) combined their names to form the moniker "Freemark Abbey." The merlot is a blend of grapes coming from local mountain vineyards as well as the Napa Valley floor. Aged in a combination of small French and American oak barrels.