Why You'll Love This Wine This isn't your everyday Merlot—this is mountain-grown, serious Merlot from one of Howell Mountain's most celebrated sites. Beringer has been making vineyard-designated Bancroft Ranch Merlot since 1987, and it consistently stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the legendary Cabernets produced by its neighbors. 92 points, Wine Spectator (Cellar Selection).
Tasting Notes Full-bodied, rich, and decadent. The nose opens with super-ripe blackberry, cassis, black plum, and fresh violet, threaded with wild sage and bay leaf. On the palate, it's luxuriously textured—plum, black cherry, and red currant layered with clove, mocha, black pepper, and a touch of dark chocolate. Firm, chalky tannins provide serious structure while remaining velvety, leading to a long, spicy finish.
Food Pairings
- Braised lamb shanks
- Grilled ribeye with herb butter
- Mushroom risotto
- Aged gouda or gruyère
Why It Works Bancroft Ranch sits at 1,800 feet on Howell Mountain's volcanic soils—well-drained, infertile ground that stresses the vines and produces small, intensely flavored berries with thick skins. The vineyard is 5-10 degrees cooler than the valley floor but gets more hours of sunshine above the fog line, allowing for extended hang time and slow, even ripening. Aged in 100% new French oak, this wine straddles the line between intense mountain power and surprising elegance. Now entering its prime drinking window, it rewards a couple hours in the decanter and has another 5+ years of cellar potential. A benchmark for what California Merlot can be.
