2010 Merlot

The vines got off to a slow start as April and May were both cooler and wetter than average. The cool trend continued into the mild summer and a full growing season that was our coolest since 1978. The exception was one notable heat spell in late August, when temperatures soared to over 111° F! Fortunately, September and October brought enough warm days to provide a beautiful finish to the growing season, allowing us to complete harvest a full week earlier than in 2009.

Beautiful aromas of cherry and chocolate encircle the nose with a robust body of berry, plum and currant. A long and lush finish follows with hints of molasses.

Try with richly sauced dishes such as steak (or even fish) in a red wine sauce, grilled chicken, chops (lamb or pork), meatloaf and prime rib.

90 POINTS vintage 2009
“Smooth, fresh and mellow with nice spice and elegant flavors of plum and cinnamon; juicy and charming.”
Anthony Dias Blue, The Tasting Panel, January 2013

TOP TEN HOLIDAY WINES
vintage 2009
Gayot, December 2012

PLATINUM vintage 2009
San Diego International Wine Competition,
June 2012

BEST MERLOT ~ Winemaker Challenge vintage 2008
(900 Wines Tasted)
Robert Whitley, January 2012

TOP 5 MERLOTS vintage 2008
(80 International Merlots Tasted)
"After being slammed by Hollywood, Merlot is getting its due again"
Bob Ecker, Napa Valley Register,
January 2012

93 POINTS vintage 2007
“Easily one of the best Napa Valley Merlots out there.”
Editors’ Choice Wine Enthusiast Magazine

vintage 2002 "...Reminds me of the best merlots produced in the Pomerol region of France..."
Bob Hosmon, Syndicated Columnist

vintage 2001 "...reminiscent of the ethereal, merlot-based wines made by Christian Moueix in Pomerol..."
Ben Giliberti, Washington Post