2021 Markham Little Cannon Vineyard Merlot

Markham Vineyards was founded in 1852 by a French immigrant who discovered that making wine in northern California was more profitable than panning for gold. In the late 19th century the estate, then called Laurent, was one of the state’s largest winemakers. In the 20th century the estate went through several owners and decades of disrepair, until 1978 when Bruck Markham acquired it. In 1988 the estate was called to the Mercian Corp., which is part of the Japanese beer brewer Kirin. Bryan Del Bondio is Senior Advisor, and Kimberlee Nicholls in winemaker. Markham is known for its red wines.

Oak Knoll AVA is one of Napa Valley’s newest appellations, having received that status in 2004. Located on the southern end of Napa Valley, the appellation is close to San Pablo Bay and therefore relatively cool. Of the 8,300 acres within the appellation, 4,150 are vineyards. The principal grapes grown are Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Locals like to call Oak Knoll “the sweet spot” thanks to its location between the San Pablo Bay and its maritime climate and the much hotter climate of Napa Valley’s floor.

The Merlot grape is such a deep blue that it is named for the blackbird. It’s an early ripening grape and one of the primary varietals used In Bordeaux. Merlot is also grown in the "International style," which is harvested later to bring out more tannins and body.