Production Notes
Varietal Content: 97% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon; Cooperage: 100% French oak château-style barrels (60 gallons); Age of Barrels: 75% New, 25% Second vintage
Winemaker Notes
Deep, rich aromas of cherry compote, bourbon pecan pie and brambly fruit rise from the glass, announcing this as a serious Merlot. On the palate, layers of cassis, chocolate-covered cherry, mulled plum, violet, red licorice and rose petal are supported by fine-grained tannins that add to the supple structure of this seamless and elegant wine.
Production
The 2012 growing season offered near-perfect growing conditions. Though budbreak was late due to heavy spring rains, warm weather during bloom allowed the vines to set a large crop. Increased yields were the result of more berries, not larger berries. This translated into even higher quality in the winery, as the skin-to-juice ratio remained ideal. Slightly cooler-than-average post-veraison weather and a lack of any heat events allowed for greatly extended hang time. Harvest was 2-3 weeks later than average, and the grapes arrived at the winery in pristine condition.