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.