The 2018 Mt. Brave Mount Veeder Merlot is a standout wine hailing from the Mount Veeder sub-appellation in Napa, California. This red Merlot, produced by Mt. Brave, offers a complex and layered tasting experience, as highlighted by several prominent wine reviewers.

James Suckling rated this 2018 Merlot with an impressive score of 95, describing it as having “aromas of spices, such as cloves, dark berries and some herbs.” He noted its full-bodied nature with “layered, chewy tannins and a savory finish,” recommending it be enjoyed after 2024 (jamessuckling.com).

Echoing Suckling’s high praise, Jeb Dunnuck also awarded it a score of 95. Dunnuck appreciated its “pretty, exotic candied orange and floral notes,” and highlighted its “juicy, elegant texture” with “nicely integrated tannins." He emphasized its “charming, undeniably delicious style” and suggested it would be ideal for enjoying over the next decade (jebdunnuck.com).

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave the wine a rating of 94+, noting that it is made from 100% Merlot and aged for 22 months in 80% new oak. The review described it as “deep garnet-purple colored” with "notions of stewed plums, baked blackberries, and sautéed herbs plus hints of beef drippings, cloves, and pencil lead.” The wine was lauded for its “full-bodied, plush and decently generous” nature, with “compelling black fruit layers” and “loads of freshness” (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate).

Vinous, with a score of 92, described the wine as “powerful” and “tightly wound,” featuring flavors of “black cherry, chocolate, spice, leather, and licorice” that are supported by “huge tannins.” The reviewer noted that this Merlot has significant character but requires time to fully develop (Vinous).

Wine Spectator awarded the wine a score of 93, commenting on its “tightly wound, pure and minerally” profile packed with “vibrant, fine-textured dried red fruit and berry flavors.” The finish was described as “direct and powerfully structured,” with forest floor notes lingering (Wine Spectator).

Lastly, Wine Enthusiast scored the wine 94 and highlighted its “thick and richly layered” composition. The review noted savory elements of “tobacco, sage, and plenty of grippy tannin,” with the fruit being “nuanced in dark plum and currant.” Additional flavors of “tobacco, black pepper, and wild game” added complexity and intrigue (Wine Enthusiast).

Overall, the 2018 Mt. Brave Mount Veeder Merlot is highly regarded across multiple reviews for its depth, complexity, and balanced profile, making it a notable choice for Merlot enthusiasts.