2023 Merryvale Merlot Napa Valley

Winemaking

Sourced from the Coombsville AVA in Southeastern Napa Valley. This area is known for its cool climate due to its proximity to the San Pablo Bay and its Volcanic soils. This combination of climate and soils produce elegant and structured wines, making it an ideal location for Merlot to promote freshness and balance. The fruit was hand harvested at night to retain freshness and acidity. After a 5 day cold soak in tank, the wines began native as well as commercial yeast fermentation. Two volumes of pumpovers per day, backing off at dryness, and pressing between 15-21 days on skins. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation completed in barrel. This wine was aged in French oak barrels (50% new) for 15 months.

Tasting Notes

Aromas of dried plum and cassis mingle with hints of blueberry jam and floral notes of geranium while beautifully interlaced with barrel notes of sandalwood and red cedar which all combine to create an impressive complexity on the nose. On the palate, the entry is round and juicy giving way to a mid-palate displaying slightly dusty tannins that provide enough structure without being overly aggressive. The wine ends with a long, elegant finish that shows a subtle graphite minerality creating a beautiful expression of this cool-climate Napa Valley Merlot.