by Andrew ChalkNapa Valley is firmly established as one of the world’s leading regions for Cabernet Sauvignon. Every vintage, dozens of producers collect accolades and medals that reaffirm that status. The valley also commands global respect for Chardonnay, particularly from cooler subregions such as Carneros.Elevating another grape to comparable recognition would be a formidable task amid the constant noise of global wine commentary. Doubly so if the grape is Merlot—a variety whose reputation s