Nose

This wine is resplendent in aromas of dark fruit such as cassis, blackberry and wild ripe strawberry alongside scents of floral, spice and earthiness.

Palate

Each sip has a very nice depth of flavor, showing the complexity and richness typical of an Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon. An elegant texture and framing acidity lead to the fine tannins that pleasantly linger.

Growing Conditions

2003 was Merryvale’s fifth harvest from the Beckstoffer family’s Vineyard X, just southwest of Brix Restaurant on the Oakville bench.

Winemaking

Blocks B and D were replanted to clones 4 and 337 in the late 90s. Block C is a ten acre block of thirty year-old vines. We are happy to be able to bottle a vineyard-designated wine from these grapes, and they are also an important component of Profile. Fermentation: Native.

Aging

18 Months, 66% New French oak.

Appearance

The wine is opaquely purple, dense and powerful.