Nose
This voluptuous wine exhibits aromas of chocolate, spice box and sweet black currants.
Palate
It possesses amazing delineation for its intensity, and low acid with an expansive and velvety-texture. The full throttle of flavors integrate nicely with supple tannin and a long fleshy finish.
Growing Conditions
We purchased the land for this vineyard in 2001 after searching for a location that would allow us to produce profound terroir based wines. Located in Knights Valley, ten acres are planted, two-thirds to red varietals and one third to white. Planting was done in stages by varietal to create the three wines in succession. The elevation of this vineyard is 2300-2500 feet and its steep slopes and bowl shape create intriguing microclimates with mostly southern and western exposures. The soils are rich in volcanic ash – ideal for Cabernet franc and Chardonnay; clay for Merlot and Sauvignon blanc. La Mekerra displays a sense of wild animal, full of energy. The wines have floral dark fruit mixed with minerals and big tannic structure for the red and great natural acidity for the whites.
Soil composition: Clay and volcanic ash Year Planted: 2003 Size: 6 acres Vine spacing: 5’ x 3’ Clones: Cab franc 327/332; Merlot 181 Elevation: 2500’ Appellation: Knights Valley, Sonoma Valley Varietals: Cabernet franc; Merlot First Vintage Produced: 2007
This is the inaugural vintage of our vineyard located at 2300 feet above Peter Michael in Knights Valley. The 8 acre site is truly unique not only for its diverse soil profiles that are perfect for cabernet franc and merlot, but also for the majestic views high above the valley floor.This wine has a distinctive personality that will certainly be one to follow. It is a cabernet franc – merlot blend that can compete with the most structured Napa cabernets.
Aging
22 months 80% new French oak
