Corte Riva's owners Romel Rivera and Lawrence Cortez have quite a history, and judging from the quality of their wines, quite a future.
Corte Riva winemaker Romel Rivera is Bob Foley's assistant at Pride Mountain, and also Foley's Hourglass, Switchback Ridge, School House and Robert Foley Vineyards projects.
Rivera has 25 years experience in the business, and his stylish Merlot is testimony to his time spent working for some of Napa's absolute best wineries. Partner Lawrence Cortez' past employers include Hans Kornell and Clos Pegase. Lawrence is also the cellar master at Pride Mountain.
Fruit sources for this exceptional merlot are Kenefick Ranch and a little from a vineyard in Carneros belonging to Clos Pegase. This is a powerful, polished and elegant Merlot with enough stuffing to merit laying down a few bottles. The wine press has acknowledged their efforts also, with Parker giving the Corte Riva Merlot a 91 score.
The Wine:
Corte Riva 2004 Merlot Napa $612/case $51/bottle
If you pick up only one Merlot this year, this should be the one! The Corte Riva 2003 is a gorgeous ruby hued, abundantly perfumed Merlot with aromas of dried cherry and anise. The flavors are lively: Mocha, violets, vanilla and dark fruits, more of that licorice tinged cherry, and a ridiculously long finish. Below is Robert Parker's take on this wine.
Wine Advocate #168
Robert Parker
91 Points
Drink 2006-2014
"Corte Riva's 2004 Merlot is a wonderful successor to the brilliant 2003. Aromas of chocolate, underbrush, blackberries, cherries, licorice, and espresso roast emerge from this deep, opulent, full-bodied Merlot that coats the mouth. It is ideal for drinking over the next 7-8 years."
Russian River Wine Company
Healdsburg, CA
jonkelvey@gmail.com
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
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