Josh Cellars Merlot
Josh Cellars Merlot is California's easy-drinking red done right — a 13.5% ABV Merlot in a 750mL bottle, blended with about 15% Cabernet Sauvignon for backbone and aged in French oak for up to 12 months. Founded in 2007 by vintner Joseph Carr and named for his father, Josh Cellars draws Merlot fruit from Napa, Monterey, Lodi, and Mendocino County. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 13.5% — 750mL
- Blend: ~85% Merlot, ~15% Cabernet Sauvignon
- Origin: California — Napa, Monterey, Lodi, Mendocino fruit
- Aging: French oak, up to 12 months
- Winery: Josh Cellars, founded 2007 by Joseph Carr
The Weeknight Merlot That Overdelivers
Josh Cellars built its reputation on one idea: make the wines people actually reach for on a Tuesday night taste like they cost twice the price. The Merlot is the softest, most inviting bottle in the lineup — a 24-hour cold soak and extended maceration coax out ripe plum and black cherry, while the Cabernet component keeps the whole thing from tipping into jammy. It is the red that converts "I don't really drink wine" guests into second-glass people. Shop more Merlot or browse everything from Josh Cellars at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Fragrant violets lead the bouquet, followed by sweet plum and vanilla bean with subtle toasted oak. The palate is velvety and soft — ripe plum, black cherry, and blackberry woven with oak — finishing medium with a lingering cocoa-powder note.
How to Enjoy
Serve at cellar temperature (60–65°F) with pasta bolognese, a simple cheeseburger, or a soft-cheese board — this is a food-versatile red that doesn't demand ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Josh Cellars Merlot 100% Merlot?
No — it is blended with about 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, which adds structure while keeping Merlot's signature softness.
Where is the fruit from?
Partner growers across California — Napa, Monterey, Lodi, and Mendocino County.
What vintage is this bottle?
The listing carries no vintage, so enjoy it as the winery's current California Merlot release.
Your new house red is waiting — order Josh Cellars Merlot online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.