Nose
Expresses a delightful bouquet of bright red cherry and wild blueberry fruits enhanced by underlying hints of green olive, cola and subtle tomato leaf.
Palate
The palate is equally alluring and balanced, opening with lush flavors of red cranberry and cassis, transitioning to touches of dried sage, sweet caramel and black licorice that continue through the long finish, supported by integrated oak and vibrant acidity.
Growing Conditions
With consistently mild temperatures throughout spring and summer, 2012 was a stellar vintage in Napa Valley, allowing slow, even ripening and yielding exquisite, balanced fruit.
Harvest
The fruit for this wine was harvested at an optimal level of ripeness in early October.
Winemaking
Fermentation took place at a high temperature to ensure that maximum extraction was achieved.
Aging
Racked to 50% new French oak barrels. The wine was aged in barrel for a total of 18 months before bottling.
Appearance
A brilliant ruby wine.
Food Pairing
Ripe and balanced, this Merlot would pair excellently with a savory dish, such as braised chicken thighs with lemon, olives and fresh herbs. Additionally, this wine would make a for a fantastic cheese course when matched with Infossato, an Italian sheep’s milk cheese with spicy, herbaceous flavors.