2007 Eagles Trace Napa Valley Merlot

So today we had a blizzard, well I don't know if it actually makes the definition of a blizzard, but we have over a foot of snow and it's still coming down, so we're close enough!  And to celebrate the end of the world, or as least the end of global warming, I've decided to open a bottle of 2007 Eagles Trace Napa Valley Merlot.  Now you may recall a week or two or three ago I opened up a bottle of the 2006 vintage as I bought this in a 4-pack vertical from WTSO, so tonight is the key vintage for Napa, the '07!

The color on this one is a deep, inky purple edging towards some brighte ruby along the edges. The nose is absolutely lovely with aromas of leather, Asian spice, ripe plum and black cherry. The taste is really sublime, with lovely fruit up front that quickly transitions to some dusty limestone and rich cedar mid palate. The chalky tannins provide great structure and support for a long, snooth and exceptionally dry finish!

Overall I would rate this wine a solid 8.5, as it's truly an excellent Merlot that brings back so many fond memories fo France! Tonight I am pairing this wine with some lobster ravioli topped with a creamy herb Alfredo sauce, the richness of the ravioli and sauce are the perfect counterbalance to the dryness and structure of this wine.  Cheers!