Ancient Peaks Merlot is an estate-grown wine sourced from the Santa Margarita Ranch in Paso Robles, California. The vineyard sits atop an uplifted ancient sea bed where calcium-rich, well-drained soils distinguished by decomposing oyster fossils lend distinctive mineral character to the fruit. Grapes are drawn from three separate Merlot blocks along the vineyard slopes, each contributing unique qualities that add natural complexity to the finished wine.

After harvest, the fruit undergoes a 72-hour cold soak before fermentation, allowing for a gentle extraction of color and flavor. The wine is then aged 20 months in a combination of French (70%) and American (30%) oak barrels, with 25 percent new oak, building structure and subtle spice.

On the nose, the wine opens with inviting aromas of dried cherry, currant, herb, clove spice, and toasted oak. The palate is plush and rounded, offering deep red fruit flavors of black cherry and cassis accented by blackberry, tobacco, peppercorn, vanilla, and dark chocolate. Supple tannins and energetic acidity carry through to a smooth, lingering finish. The wine has received 90 points from Ken's Wine Guide (2021 vintage) and 90 points from Wine Enthusiast (2017 vintage). Pairs well with beef stew, veal chops, vegetable lasagna, lamb shanks, and grilled burgers.