Merlot 2019
$0 / Bottle (750ml)
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Merlot flourishes in relatively cool growing regions with moist soils, making it an ideal match for certain parts of our estate vineyard, located in the Oak Knoll District of the Napa Valley, a sweet spot between warmer up-valley regions and the cool southern tip.
The Vintage
The dormant season was wet with much more rain than usual before the skies cleared in April, just in time for budbreak. The weather in May was surprisingly cool and rainy again, slowing down the vine growth and serving as a harbinger of the roller-coaster growing season that followed. The summer months alternated between warmer and cooler than average, but thankfully, the daily high temperatures rarely exceeded 100°F. September was warm and sunny, providing the perfect finish and all the grapes were in by mid-October.
The Wine
Smooth and fresh, this wine opens with ripe raspberry, cherry, plum, and a touch of dark chocolate. On the palate, darker fruit flavors of black cherry and boysenberry emerge with layered herbal notes leading to a long, juicy finish.
Food Affinities
This bright and elegant Merlot pairs well with Italian cuisine and savory dishes, like roasted chicken, mushrooms, and parmesan. Winery Chef Chris Kennedy suggests pairing it with his Roasted Mushrooms with Arugula and Potato-Parsnip Purée
Roasted Mushrooms with Arugula & Potato-Parsnip Purée