Palate

“Proving once again the resilience of great terroir in difficult vintages and the beauty of mountain Merlot, the 2010 W.S. Keyes is a shining example of how mountain Merlot from Napa Valley is establishing a place in the pantheon of wines recognized around the world for their depth, complexity, and ageability. The 2010 W.S. Keyes has intense dark cherry, dark chocolate, espresso bean, and kirsch notes, with a rich texture and long finish.”

Growing Conditions

The vineyard sits at an elevation of 1,825 feet, well above the fog that frequently rolls into Napa Valley in the evening, resulting in nights that are slightly warmer than those in the valley below. Meanwhile, the high altitude keeps daytime temperatures cooler. Harvest comes later, and the long hang-times allow for the development of deep, complex flavors. The grapes for this wine come from the oldest and most prized block of the W.S. Keyes Vineyard.

Harvest

Late October - Early November

Aging

19 months in French Oak (85% new)