Charles Krug, Napa Valley Merlot 2020

Get to know: Charles Krug Napa Valley Merlot 2020

A rich, expressive Napa Valley red wine from the heart of California’s most famous wine region.

Tasting Note

Charles Krug Napa Valley Merlot 2020 is a generous, full-flavoured red that shows why Napa Merlot can be so appealing. Deep ruby in colour with lifted aromas of black cherry, blackcurrant, blueberry compote and violet, layered with hints of dark chocolate, coffee and sweet spice. On the palate, this Merlot is medium- to full-bodied, with ripe red and black fruit flavours, a subtle creamy texture and well-judged oak influence. It finishes long and smooth with notes of toasted oak, mocha and fine, supple tannins. A polished, crowd-pleasing Napa Valley Merlot with plenty of depth and balance.

Top food pairings:

• Roast beef or grilled steak
• Mushroom risotto or lentil-based dishes
• Hard cheeses such as Comté or mature Cheddar

Kate Says

Pure, gorgeous Merlot – plush, smooth and deeply satisfying. Ideal for a relaxed dinner with good food and even better company. This could be the red of Christmas this year I reckon

Producer Info

Charles Krug Winery is the oldest commercial winery in Napa Valley, founded in 1861 and owned by the Mondavi family since 1943. Renowned for its classic approach to winemaking, the estate focuses on balance and expression of fruit, producing some of the most dependable and elegant red wines in Napa Valley.

How it’s made:

• Varieties: Predominantly Merlot with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Franc
• Harvested at full ripeness to capture rich fruit character
• Careful maceration to build colour, flavour and soft tannins
• Fermented in temperature-controlled tanks
• Matured in oak barrels to add texture and gentle spice

Good to know:

• Region: Napa Valley, California, USA
• Style: Red, still, medium- to full-bodied
• Closure: Natural cork
• Vegan: No
• ABV: 14.6%
• Vintage: 2020

Why we love it:

This Napa Valley red wine delivers everything you want from a modern Merlot – ripe fruit, smooth texture and just enough oak complexity. It’s generous without being heavy, versatile at the table, and drinking beautifully now, making it a reliable go-to for lovers of Californian reds.