Hill Family Origin Red Wine 2019, Napa Valley, California

2019 Origin – 37% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Malbec and 16% Syrah, 13% Petit Verdot. Appellations: Carneros, Oak Knoll, Yountville and Atlas Peak. Cooperage: 21% new oak barrels aged for 16 months. “Origin is our chance to create a stylish and intriguing blend from the vineyards that Doug Hill farms in the cooler areas of southern Napa. Merlot from the Beau Terre vineyard adds plushy fruit, while the Merlot from Stewart Ranch adds a stylish side to the blend. Malbec from the Baker Vineyard has become a big part of the palate structure for Origin with its big color and lower tannins while the Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon adds dignity and structure.” Winemaker Alison Doran’s tasting notes: The 2019 Origin has lovely aromas of ripe plum, black cherry and vanilla. The broad enttry has a big mouthful of berry jam, and the palate is full bodied and smooth, expressing the plums and cherry while adding a hint of mocha on the very drinkable finish.