St. Francis Winery Merlot from Sonoma Valley is a classic California Merlot crafted by one of the region's most historic estates. Founded in 1971 by Joe Martin at Behler Ranch in Kenwood, St. Francis was the first winery in Sonoma Valley to plant and bottle Merlot, helping to define the varietal's identity in the region. The winery owns over 415 acres of vineyard land across prime AVAs including Sonoma Valley, Russian River Valley, Alexander Valley, and Rockpile.

All grapes are hand-harvested and gently destemmed before a two-day cold soak to extract optimal color and flavor. The wine is fermented in separate lots using multiple yeast strains to build complexity, with pump-overs and rack-and-return techniques to soften tannins. It is then matured for 14 to 15 months in French oak barrels, delivering depth and a polished texture.

The wine is smooth and elegant with classic aromas and flavors of cherry, ripe plum, cassis, and bittersweet chocolate. Its silky, full-bodied structure is supported by soft tannins and bright acidity, leading to a bold, lengthy finish. Pairs beautifully with beef, duck, and blue cheese. St. Francis is a regional leader in sustainable practices, including recycled packaging and water and energy conservation. Sold as a case of 12 x 750ML bottles.