The gorgeous nose of this wine immediately evokes thoughts of ripe black cherry and juicy wild blueberry. As it opens up, tantalizing layers of espresso, vanilla, star anise, cocoa powder and sweet baking spices are revealed. On the bright, juicy palate, layers of brambly fruit and pomegranate mingle with subtle savory accents and hints of bittersweet chocolate and cardamom. The tannin’s are silky and supple, adding plushness and weight to the luxurious flavors that build in density on the mid-palate, before gliding to a long, resonant finish.
A grape blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot.
This wine contains allergens, sulfites.
Estate
Dan and Margaret Duckhorn found Duckhorn Vineyards, which becomes one of the first 40 Napa Valley wineries. They also purchase our original 10-acre property in beautiful St. Helena. Named Marlee’s Vineyard, after Margaret, this idyllic property will later become home to the beautiful Duckhorn Vineyards Estate House.
Winemaking
Dedicated to making classic wines that reflect the unique character and quality of the vineyards, Renée strives to understand the needs and opportunities presented by each specific terroir and microclimate. By approaching each vineyard block individually, Renée’s goal is to harvest when the flavors have reached their peak and the tannins are at their softest.
Food Suggestions
Pairs well with beef, lamb, deer, venison, and poultry dishes.
Wine.com – 94
"COMMENTARY: The Discussion 2016 by Duckhorn Vineyards exemplifies an excellent synergy of Bordeaux grape varieties. TASTING NOTES: This wine comes right at you with aromas and flavors of black fruits, anise, and blackberries. Pair it with a juicy, grilled, well-marbled ribeye topped with finely minced shallots."
Wine & Spirits – 94
"Breaking from Duckhorn’s focus on varietally labeled wines, Renee Ary blends The Discussion based on favored estate parcels. In 2016, it’s 55 percent cabernet sauvignon, 43 percent merlot and one percent each of franc and petit verdot. Given enough time to evolve past the almost peachy ripeness of its fruit and the significant presence of oak (it spends 18 months in new French oak barrels, then another six months in neutral barrels), the wine feels complete and completely rich. It has none of the stodginess common to cabernet, instead presenting a powerful structure, intense and gracious in its bitter-chocolate tannins. All the elements point in an upward trajectory, a path they should follow with extended bottle age."
Wine Enthusiast – 92
"A structured blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and tiny pinches of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this barrel-selection wine is sourced from an estate-grown block. It is graceful yet intense, with powerfully integrated tannins and lasting oak that support flavors of black cherry and cassis accented in cedar and clove. It will do well in the cellar; enjoy from 2026–2031."