DuCard Merlot 2020

A well-balanced Virginia red wine with notes of dark fruits and herbs.

Winery Notes

This well-balanced wine has a welcoming nose of dark fruits and herbs. Soft tannins with vanilla notes leave a rich and warm mouthfeel. It was aged in French oak for nine months.

Market Tasting Panel Review

DuCard’s 2020 Merlot is like a cozy fireside chat – warm, inviting, and unexpectedly complex. This Central Virginia gem opens with a rich nose of dark fruits, like blackberry and plum, with an herbal lift that hints at rosemary and thyme. On the palate, the fruit remains dominant, complemented by soft, velvety tannins and just a whisper of vanilla, thanks to nine months in French oak. It’s not overly heavy; rather, it strikes that perfect balance with a medium body that’s smooth and structured.

Food Pairings

For food pairings, this Merlot plays well with a variety of flavors. A savory mushroom risotto would bring out its earthy notes, while a grilled lamb burger topped with goat cheese would complement the wine’s subtle herbal and fruity qualities. Even a simple charcuterie board with smoked meats and aged cheeses will elevate each sip.