Established back in 1985 ago by legendary vintners Dan and Margaret Duckhorn, “Decoy” is a remarkable chapter within the Duckhorn story. Drawing on the winemaking team’s extensive expertise working with this varietal within Napa Valley, “Decoy” Sonoma County Merlot is a lush and inviting wine highlighting the elegance of the varietal from another exceptional region

This wine showcases the elegance of Merlot and highlights the bold fruit flavours. Reflecting the character of each growing season and the diversity of their vineyard sources, “Decoy” has established itself as a wine of distinction. From vine to bottle, the wines are crafted to the highest standards, only using grapes from exceptional vineyards.

A nose of black cherry and dark chocolate is complemented by subtle savoury notes of dried herbs and woodsmoke. The palate shows beautifully balanced acidity and fine, velvety tannins underscoring lush layers of fruit. This wine may be enjoyed now or over the next 5+ years. Pair with a chicken and mushroom pot pie.

“In 1985, nine years after creating Duckhorn Winery in Napa Valley, founders Dan and Margaret Duckhorn decided to create the Decoy label for “attractively priced” wines.  It consists primarily of Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon and a dash of Cabernet Franc.  Sixty per cent of the grapes come from Sonoma County, 32 per cent from Central Coast and eight per cent from Mendocino County, places where the price per ton of grape can be less expensive than those from Napa Valley.  It is aged 12 months in 100 per cent French oak, 35 percent new.  It offers a dark ruby color, rich blackberry, black cherry, vanilla, cassis, tobacco aromas and flavors ripe and smooth in the mouth are balanced with vibrant acidity and polished tannins, perfect for a grilled sirloin.” 94 points, Rebecca Murphy, Wine Review Online, May 2022

“Decoy 2019 Merlot has a splash or two of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc added to the mix. Floral and spicy on the nose, the wine is dry, full-bodied, lushly layered and vibrant with dark plum, black cherry, raspberry, vanilla and toasty oak spice. Pour with a roast pork. Drink or hold. Merlot food pairings: borsch (beet soup), quesadillas, Tandoori-flavored dishes, lentil dishes.” 91 points, Natalie Maclean, June 2022