Switchback Ridge wines are sourced from the Peterson Family Vineyard. The property, located just off the Silverado Trail between St. Helena and Calistoga has been in the Peterson Family since 1914 and was replanted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah in 1990. Kelly Peterson along with her father John founded Switchback Ridge in 1999. She is responsible for all aspects of the business, including all sales, marketing and hospitality functions. Bob Foley has been the winemaker since the inaugural vintage.
Purple in color. 14.5% ABV. Stunning nose of cassis liqueur, cocoa powder, Whitman Sampler and scorched earth. Full bodied, concentrated and well balanced. Plush and supple. Currants, blackberries and licorice on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish with substantial fine grained tannins. Exceptional Bob Foley Merlot from a challenging vintage. Best over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 92 points.
Switchback Ridge wines are only available via their allocation list. The 2016 Merlot will be released to mailing list members this fall at around $75 per bottle. Fantastic value here in my opinion.