2016 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 1.5L

Winemaking

Drawn from three top Napa vineyards: Stagecoach, Hardman and Rancho Chimiles with each vineyard fermented separately in small tanks. Native fermentation started after a 5-day cold soak and reached a peak temperature of 90°F. The wines were pumped over a few times a day until dry and then pressed and drained to barrels where malolactic fermentation occurred. Aged in 50% new medium toast French oak barrels, the wine matures for 22 months before being bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Tasting Notes

The wine opens with abundant dark fruit on the nose such as plum, blackberry and cherries, with a touch of leather and graphite. In the mouth it starts with lively acidity that brings a freshness to the wine, then it evolves on soft tannins and a very velvety texture—already showing great! There is a lot of tension and drinkability with this wine at release so it can be enjoyed immediately. The blend is comprised of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 6% Malbec, 4% Cabernet Franc.