Appellation: |
Napa Valley |
Vineyards: |
Conn Valley, Napa Valley |
Varietal Blend; |
75% Merlot 12.5% Cabernet Sauvignon 12.5% Cabernet Franc |
| Brix at Harvest: | 25.2 |
| PH: | 3.7 |
| TA: | .074 |
Alcohol: |
14.4% |
Release Date: |
May 2008 |
Bottling Date: |
April 2007 |
Production: |
583 Cases (6/750ML) |
Harvest Date: |
October 23,2005 |
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2005 ESTATE GROWN MERLOT NAPA VALLEY
WINEMAKER'S NOTES
The Merlot follows the footprint of Bordeaux, specifically the area along the right bank of the Dordogne River in the area of Pomerol, where one finds the wines of such Chateaux as Petrus and Le Pin.
Much like those vineyards, our Estate Vineyards produce Merlot with opulence, finesse, and rich ripe fruit. The year 2005 produced a moderate sized crop with wonderful flavor development. The grapes were small with great intensity.
This Merlot is a blend of 75% Merlot with 12.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, giving the wine a “strong backbone,” along with 12.5% Cabernet Franc for spice.
The wine displays a dark ruby color with complex flavors of chocolate, black currants, blackberry, and spice. In the mouth the wine reveals flavors of minerals, mocha, blackberries, and spice along with rounded tannins. The wine will continue to develop for years and live for 15 years or more.