Napa Valley wine legend who made merlot a global icon dies

Napa Valley has lost a true icon with the passing of Tom Rinaldi — a winemaker whose career spanned five legendary decades.As Duckhorn’s founding winemaker, Rinaldi, 77, devoted 22 years to building its enduring legacy.At a time when merlot was mostly used in blends, he crafted the first Three Palms Merlot, catapulting Duckhorn to fame and forever transforming the reputation of the grape.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story As Doug Shafer of Shafer Vineyards recalled on his podcast to the San Francisco Chronicle, “He put Merlot on the map in the modern era.That’s what I think most people know him for.

But the other thing was that he was so generous with his time and advice for all of us.He’d be incredibly forthcoming.”Rinaldi passed away peacefully in his sleep.California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedInCalifornia Post Sports Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, XCalifornia Post Opinion California Post Newsletters: Sign up here!California Post App: Download here!Home delivery: Sign up here!Page Six Hollywood: Sign up here!...