Hollow Tree Merlot 2018

Inspired by Northern California’s ancient redwoods, this velvety-smooth Merlot is a real giant in its own right. It hails from premium Lake County and 2018, which is “undoubtably a beautiful vintage for Northern California,” producing wines with “an easygoing, elegant, and pure style that is already a joy to taste” (critic Jeb Dunnuck). Just wait until you get it in your glass—Hollow Tree has a beautiful, deep ruby color and offers plush, sumptuous plum and red berry flavors. A real treat at the end of a long day.

Named after a grape-loving blackbird (le merle in French), Merlot is one of the world’s most popular reds. Known for yielding silky, food-friendly wines, it’s famous in Bordeaux’s Pomerol and Saint-Emilion regions, where it makes sought-after bottles that can sell for thousands of dollars each. Merlot thrives all over the world though, namely in California, where top cuvées from Napa and Sonoma can also fetch a pretty penny. This lovely example shows the serious flavor (and great value) Lake County has to offer.

Located just north of Napa Valley, Lake County is one of the fastest growing wine regions in the U.S. The county benefits from a long, warm growing season that gives grapes ample time to ripen, along with the moderating influence of Clear Lake (the largest body of freshwater in California), which helps grapes retain freshness.

While delicious sipped on its own, Hollow Tree Merlot will pair beautifully with grilled chicken, duck confit, pan-roasted quail or other poultry dishes. Vegetarian? Try it with creamy mushroom risotto or an eggplant parmigiana.