To this day, this remains one of the benchmark expressions of full-bodied Merlot in Napa Valley—lush, powerful, and true to its Calistoga roots. Crafted by Thomas Rivers Brown, the 2023 Merlot captures the depth of its Calistoga vineyard. Layers of black cherry, plum, and blackberry are framed by notes of violet, cedar, and spice. Concentrated yet balanced, it shows silky tannins, lively acidity, and a long, refined finish with touches of mocha and toasted oak. The 2023 vintage was small in volume but outstanding in quality. 335 cases were produced.

I was an early supporter of Switchback Ridge, back when Bob Foley was at the height of his fame—crafting some of Napa’s most sought-after wines at the time, including Pride, Paloma, Hourglass, and his own label, alongside Switchback Ridge. The vines originate from the Peterson family’s century-old ranch in the western Calistoga Palisades—land they’ve farmed since 1914. Once planted to walnuts and prunes, the property was converted to vineyard in the early 1990s under David Abreu’s meticulous direction, establishing the foundation for the quality that continues today. Now guided by winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown and viticulturist Matt Hardin, the wines reflect both the pedigree of the site and a more modern sense of balance and restraint, combining depth and structure with a natural lift. Remarkably, vintner Kelly Peterson has kept pricing steady even as peers have climbed, making these wines among Napa Valley’s most under-the-radar values.