Renowned Napa winemaker Tom Rinaldi, creator of iconic Merlot, dies at 77
Tom Rinaldi, the founding winemaker of Duckhorn who pioneered modern Merlot, has died peacefully at age 77.
Tom Rinaldi, who spent 22 years shaping Duckhorn's reputation, passed away in his sleep. He introduced the first Three Palms Merlot, elevating the grape from a blending component to a celebrated varietal. Fellow winemaker Doug Shafer praised Rinaldi’s generosity and influence on the industry. His death marks the loss of a pivotal figure in Napa Valley’s wine history.
Why it matters
Rinaldi’s innovations transformed Merlot’s global reputation and shaped Napa’s wine industry.
In this story
Tom RinaldiDuckhornMerlotNapa Valleywine legendThree Palms MerlotShafer Vineyards
