Powerful, plush, fresh.
Oliver's Phantom Creek Estates is owned by China-born Richmond-based businessman Richter Bai, who purchased the Phantom Creek and Beker (formerly owned by Harry McWatters who named it the Sundial Vineyard) vineyards in 2016.
From there a winery was erected, complete with guest center and restaurant. In 2021 Mark Beringer of Napa Valley joined the team as Director of Winemaking; he works alongside French consultants Olivier Humbrecht MW and Philippe Melka.
The estate Merlot, harvested from the Black Sage and Golden Mile vineyards, was aged in French oak (36% new) for 18 months.
Expect plush aromas of Kirsch and licorice, vanilla, pipe tobacco and toasted baking spices. The palate has the same potency as the nose; it has a lush character and lovely freshness along with woven flavours of coffee, chocolate and black cherry. Powerful like its brethren, the Merlot also has good tannic grip on the finish.
©copyright 2021 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 24th, 2021