Nose
The 2004 Merlot opens with an enticing bouquet of plum and black cherries, with dark chocolate, coffee and earth tones playing a supporting role.
Palate
On the palate, these flavors are echoed, increasing in the mouth and flooding the mid-palate. The finish is notably long and features soft, lush tannins. This classic Merlot is smooth and polished yet bold, with plenty of depth and power.
Growing Conditions
Seavey's 11th estate-produced Merlot, the 2004, was made from grapes grown at several different elevations of the vineyard. The 2004 growing season was short and warm, resulting in steady, evening ripening. All of our vineyard blocks ripened almost simultaneously, giving us many harvest-time challenges as we scrambled to keep up with fruit ripening. The grapes were harvested between September 7 and September 15 at optimal ripeness of sugar and tannins and with concentrated fruit flavors.
Bottling
May 2006
Winemaking
Winemaking style followed classic Bordeaux methods. In the winery, the grapes were sorted, destemmed and gently lifted into small tanks for fermentation.
Aging
18 months 100% French Oak (40% new)
