Rating 94
Style Red
Variety
Vintage 2023
Appellation
Virginia
USA
ABV 13%
Price $42.00  Buy This Wine
Print Shelf Talker
Reviewed By
Reviewed 2026-09-29

Perfect For

Dinner Parties, Holiday Meals, Long-Term Aging

Drink If You Like

Cabernet Franc, Malbec , Merlot

DuCard Vineyards Merlot 2023 Review

Located in the shadow of Virginia’s stunning Shenandoah National Park, DuCard began as a picturesque vacation cottage in 2004. But in 2010, founder Scott Elliff expanded the property’s wine production and opened to the public, marking its start as a full-fledged winery. The wines produced here in the vineyards surrounded by the mountains are beautiful, and a refreshing new idea in American wine. This wine — which also includes some peppery Cabernet Franc in the blend — has an inviting nose of ripe berries, plums, and black cherry. The palate is medium-bodied, with a great balance between acid, fruit, and subtle hints of vanilla, dried herbs, and spice.

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94
POINTS
DuCard Vineyards Merlot 2023
Located in the shadow of Virginia’s stunning Shenandoah National Park, DuCard began as a picturesque vacation cottage in 2004. But in 2010, founder Scott Elliff expanded the property’s wine production and opened to the public, marking its start as a full-fledged winery. The wines produced here in the vineyards surrounded by the mountains are beautiful, and a refreshing new idea in American wine. This wine — which also includes some peppery Cabernet Franc in the blend — has an inviting nose of ripe berries, plums, and black cherry. The palate is medium-bodied, with a great balance between acid, fruit, and subtle hints of vanilla, dried herbs, and spice.

Reviewed On: 09-29-2026
94
POINTS
DuCard Vineyards Merlot 2023
Located in the shadow of Virginia’s stunning Shenandoah National Park, DuCard began as a picturesque vacation cottage in 2004. But in 2010, founder Scott Elliff expanded the property’s wine production and opened to the public, marking its start as a full-fledged winery. The wines produced here in the vineyards surrounded by the mountains are beautiful, and a refreshing new idea in American wine. This wine — which also includes some peppery Cabernet Franc in the blend — has an inviting nose of ripe berries, plums, and black cherry. The palate is medium-bodied, with a great balance between acid, fruit, and subtle hints of vanilla, dried herbs, and spice.

Reviewed On: 09-29-2026