Our 100% Merlot is crafted to spotlight a side of Rutherford that often goes unsung. While the region is renowned for Cabernet Sauvignon, we saw an opportunity to showcase how its gravelly soils and long growing season could elevate Merlot to something extraordinary.
Member Price: $71 – $84
By harvesting in two passes—one for freshness and red fruit, the other for richness and dark tones — we capture the full spectrum of what Merlot can be in Rutherford. The result is a wine that’s vibrant, structured, and unmistakably expressive of place.
The Proprietary family of wines are comprised of unique blends and varietals sourced entirely from our Rutherford Estate. Crafted with balance and a dedication to expressing our terroir, these wines represent an annual “homage” to the vintage and are made exclusively for members and guests of Round Pond Estate and not available elsewhere.
“A red with detail and dimension, showing precise flavors of red currant and cherry laced with mocha, espresso and savory spice notes that build richness and tension on the finish. Drink now through 2035."
93 Points, Tim Fish, Wine Spectator
“Spicy and dark-fruited, with black cherry, plum, cocoa, dried herb and spice aromas. The palate is full-bodied with supple tannins, balanced acidity and a supple finish. Drink or hold."
93 Points, Ryan Montgomery, JamesSuckling.com
Our Merlot offers aromatic notes of ripe plum, blackberry, and a hint of cedar. Smooth and supple, this wine offers flavors of black cherry and red currant with a touch of toasted vanilla and mocha on the mid-palate, rounded out by notes of clove and dried fig. With velvety tannins and balanced acidity, this Merlot offers a long, satisfying finish and is ready to be enjoyed now, but will also continue to age beautifully over time.
The 2023 vintage marked the end of our three-year drought, bringing nearly 30” of rainfall that contributed to the revitalization of our soil profiles and fostering robust canopy growth. The vintage was one of the mildest in the last 10 years which provided a long hangtime, allowing full flavor development leading to very expressive flavors and aromas. As soon as the fruit set after flowering, extensive hand work began in the vineyard opening the canopy to allow for full sun exposure on the fruit. This leads to full, concentrated flavor and ensures the fruit is as expressive as possible. The 2023 vintage will be one for the ages and we feel these wines truly capture the exceptional year.
Juicy grilled pork sets the perfect stage for a fresh, autumn-inspired salad with the bright tartness of pomegranate, toasted pumpkin seeds, and a fresh vinaigrette with subtle orange essence. Pairs wonderfully with our Proprietary Merlot.
