2006 Merlot, Napa Valley

BLEND
90% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec

VINEYARDS
Showket, Las Amigas, Merryvale St. Helena Estate Vineyard

APPELLATION
Napa Valley

WINEMAKING

• Handpicked, Triple Sorted
• Extended maceration
• Minimal handling; only racked twice

BARREL AGING
Aged 18 months in French oak (70% new)

ALCOHOL
14.8% by volume

CELLARING
This wine will age well for a decade and beyond.

WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Winemaking
The fruit was hand-picked and triple-sorted before undergoing extended maceration for increased flavor and color. The wine was aged for 18 months in 70% new French oak and minimally racked.

Vintage
The 2006 vintage has been described as a “growers” year by some vintners. After a late bud break due to an unseasonably cool spring, the Napa Valley experienced a record setting heat wave in July which allowed the grapes to catch up in ripening. An ideal mild weather pattern came in August and an “Indian Summer” followed into October allowing for slow and even ripening resulting in acids and sugars in perfect harmony.

Tasting Notes
Our 2006 Napa Valley Merlot shows aromas of brambly blackberry and black currants along with vanilla, dark chocolate, baking spices and roasted sage. The flavors echo the aromas with great focus and intensity in the mouthfeel. Our favorite pairings include a beef tenderloin roast and rosemary infused leg of lamb.