The 2018 Mt. Brave Mount Veeder Merlot is a captivating red wine that showcases the exceptional quality of Napa Valley's Mount Veeder appellation. With its deep garnet-purple color and enticing aromas, this wine immediately captivates the senses. On the nose, one can detect a beautiful array of spices, such as cloves, along with dark berries and subtle herbal notes.
This full-bodied Merlot offers a layered and complex palate, featuring chewy tannins that add structure and depth. The savory finish leaves a lasting impression, making it a truly memorable wine. Juicy and flavorful, this Merlot is a testament to the exceptional winemaking expertise of Mt. Brave.
Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive score of 95 points. According to Suckling, the wine should be enjoyed after 2024, allowing for further development and integration of its flavors. Jeb Dunnuck also praised this wine, noting its pretty and exotic candied orange and floral notes. He described it as medium to full-bodied with a juicy and elegant texture, as well as nicely integrated tannins.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded the 2018 Merlot Mt. Veeder a score of 94+, highlighting its deep garnet-purple color and enticing aromas of stewed plums, baked blackberries, and sautéed herbs. The wine is described as full-bodied, plush, and generously fruity, with compelling layers of black fruit and a refreshing finish.
Vinous awarded this wine a score of 92, noting its powerful and tightly wound nature. The wine displays flavors of black cherry, chocolate, spice, leather, and licorice, carried by significant tannins. According to Vinous, this mountain wine requires time to fully come together.
Wine Spectator awarded the 2018 Merlot a score of 93, praising its tight structure, purity, and minerality. The wine exhibits vibrant dried red fruit and berry flavors, with lingering forest floor notes on the finish. Wine Spectator suggests enjoying this wine now through 2026.
Wine Enthusiast also awarded this wine a score of 94, describing it as thick and richly layered. The wine displays savory notes of tobacco and sage, complemented by grippy tannins. The dark plum and currant fruit are nuanced, and additional complexity is provided by hints of black pepper and wild game.
Overall, the 2018 Mt. Brave Mount Veeder Merlot is a highly acclaimed wine that showcases the unique qualities of the Mount Veeder appellation. With its exceptional depth, complexity, and potential for aging, this Merlot is a true gem for wine connoisseurs and collectors alike.