WINEMAKING NOTES

Our 2015 Sonoma County Merlot is lush with predominate notes of black cherry, dark berries and plum with a hint of dried herbs. This wine is silky and voluptuous with soft tannins and finishes with a touch of cocoa and vanilla. The luscious dark fruit flavors are enhanced by aging in 100% small French oak barrels.

FOOD PAIRINGS

Enjoy this soft, rich, elegant Merlot over the next two to four years with charcuterie, grilled pork ribs and burgers.

THE VINEYARDS

The 2015 vintage was warm overall, but cooler than the previous few years. Budbreak was very early, weeks ahead of average. Cool and hot weather
alternated the rest of the summer. The acidity and tannins in the berries remained firm as we were looking at the possibility of a record early harvest date, so we chose to let the sugars go, and waited for the acids to lower and for the tannins to soften. Satisfied with the flavors, and with all things in balance, Merlot harvest started August 21 and wrapped up October 7, 2015.