Frog's Leap Rutherford Napa Valley Merlot 2022
Frog's Leap Rutherford Napa Valley Merlot 2022 is Napa Merlot the old-fashioned way: 92% Merlot with 8% Cabernet Sauvignon from certified-organic, dry-farmed (never irrigated) estate vineyards in Rutherford — one of the smallest wines in the Frog's Leap core range — bottled at 13.1% ABV in this 750mL bottle — and it is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
Winemakers John and Rory Williams farm without irrigation and ferment traditionally, chasing balance over bombast — French oak aging, modest alcohol, fruit first. The winery's own words: "Silken, yet powerful. Ripened red berries and cherry flavors are accentuated by delicate notes of mocha, herbs and spice. This wine has a plush mouthfeel and a lovely finish."
Press notes: cranberry sauce and richness with a developing dark-herb/tobacco note; ripe plum, dark cherry, cocoa, damp earth, cedar, and cigar box; a plush palate of red plum, black cherry, blueberry, mocha, and fine-grained tannins. 92 points, James Suckling (2022 vintage).
Why buy Frog's Leap Merlot? Because it's Merlot made like it's 1985 — organic, dry-farmed, 13.1% alcohol — in a valley that mostly moved on, and the 92-point 2022 is drinking beautifully now. Browse the red wine collection, the Frog's Leap brand collection, and more wines.
Serving note: decant 30 minutes; serve at 60–65°F. Classic with roast duck, mushroom risotto, and Thanksgiving dinner.
What is the ABV? 13.1% ABV for the 2022 vintage (the winery's restrained, balance-driven style), 750mL.
What grapes are in it? 92% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, per the winery.
Is it organic? Yes — 100% certified organic and dry-farmed estate vineyards in Rutherford, Napa Valley.
Has it won awards? 92 points from James Suckling for the 2022 vintage.