2014 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon Saint Helena

Winemaking

Merryvale’s St. Helena Estate Vineyard lies on an eastern ridge overlooking the Napa Valley at almost one thousand feet of elevation. Planted in 1997, this vineyard consistently delivers grapes that stand out for their plush fruit character, complexity and silky tannins. The handpicked grapes were allowed to cold soak after arrival at the winery, allowing a long and gentle extraction to take place. Each lot was fermented separately in small tanks. Native fermentation began after a 7-day cold soak and reached a peak temperature of 90°F. The wines were pumped over a few times a day until dry then pressed and drained to barrels where malolactic fermentation occurred. We aged the wine for 22 months in 70% new French oak barrels from Taransaud, Darnajou, and Sylvain. The wine was racked three times and bottles without fining or filtration.

Tasting Notes

Coming from the loamier part of our estate vineyard, this wine reflects the intensity and dark character that we expect from this incredible site. With grapes selected from younger vines from the south facing block of this vineyard, our Saint Helena Cabernet exemplifies a wine that is powerful yet elegant and enjoyable in its youth. The lengthy finish showcases well proportioned and refined tannins that will gain even more complexity as time passes. With proper cellaring, this wine will drink beautifully for the next 15 to 20 years.