Nose
This wine exudes a delightful
array of aromas, from bright red cherry and wild strawberry to black pepper, spearmint
and red licorice.
Palate
The palate is equally pleasing and balanced, opening with lush flavors
of red cranberry and red currant, transitioning to touches of dried sage, coffee bean
and briar that continue through the long finish, supported by integrated oak and
vibrant acidity.
Growing Conditions
2013 was an ideal seaon in Napa Valley, with dry
conditions and a long, sunny summer, allowing even ripening and yielding exquisite,
balanced fruit.
Harvest
The fruit for this wine was harvested at an optimal level of ripeness in
late September.
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
Gleaming brilliant ruby in the glass.
Food Pairing
Ripe and elegant, this Merlot would pair excellently with a savory dish,
such as duck crepinettes with preserved lemon or pork chops with wild mushrooms.
Additionally, this wine would make a for a fantastic cheese course when matched with
Fiore Sardo, an Italian sheep’s milk cheese with nutty, fruity flavors.