At over 20 years old, this Merlot would be well into its mature phase. Double magnum format (3L) ages more slowly than standard bottles, so the wine may still be holding primary fruit. Expect dried plum, cedar, tobacco, leather, and softened tannins. Provenance and bottle condition are critical.
- Varietal
- Merlot (likely with small percentages of other Bordeaux varieties)
- Region
- USA / California / Napa Valley
- Body
- Medium to Full
- Style
- dry red, oak-aged, mature
- Bottle
- Double Magnum (3L)
The producer
Hall Wines is a Napa Valley producer formally established as a brand by Kathryn and Craig Hall in 2003 (though the family had purchased property in Napa earlier — a 2002 vintage would predate the brand's formal launch). The estate is known for its modern St. Helena tasting room and its Cabernet program.
What critics say
Hall's Cabernet program receives more critical attention than its Merlot; specific data on the 2002 Merlot in double magnum is not known.
Pairing
Slow-roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, mushroom-forward dishes