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Wine Details
Price:
$28.00 per bottle
Description:
Our first bottling of Napa Valley Merlot is the result of carefully chosen fruit from a handful of dynamic local vineyard sites. Crafted in an ultra ripe, fleshy and decidedly opulent style, our Merlot clearly mirrors the amazing growing conditions and overall quality of the vintage in 2001. Contrary to the notion that Merlot itself may often lack a certain punch, this wine provides plenty of depth and backbone with finely integrated tannins matched by a subtle beam of acidity…both of which are nicely framed by massively round fruit flavors. The addition of Cabernet Franc found within serves to heighten and expand on the floral cherry and briary blackberry notes that nearly leap from the glass on first impression. Supple yet lithe, this wine is deceptively ripe, rich and plush while amazingly versatile and food friendly.
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Varietal Definition
Merlot:
Merlot is known as a Noble Bordeaux varietal. Although it came to France in the first century, it was not named until the 1880s. Merlot was originally used only for blending, as it is soft and compliant, very useful in softening other Bordeaux wines like Cabernets. Recently in California and Chile it became popular as a 100% varietal wine. Merlot tends to be easier to grow in a variety of soil conditions and is harvested earlier in the year than Cabernet. Although most Merlots are made to be drunk earlier, there are many with complexities of a Cabernet. Flavors of plum, black cherry, violet, chocolate and orange pair well with rich, red pasta dishes, hearty chicken dishes, and any beef combination that you fancy. The perfect match of course is chocolate. Not only does the chocolate compliment the wine and vice-versa, but the essence of both flavors linger eternally.
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Cabernet Franc:
Cabernet Franc is an accessible, spicy, herbal, dark blue grape variety that is often compared to Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc tends to be softer and has less tannin than Cabernet Sauvignon, although the two can be difficult to distinguish. Sometimes the French refer to Cabernets, which could mean either of the two grapes. Its typical aromas include an herbaceous and pronounced peppery nose, even in ripe fruit, and something eerily like tobacco. The Cabernet Franc ripens at an earlier stage, which gives it reason to exist in the Bordeaux area. In the Loire, where we find it a lot, it gives a clear red fresh and fruity wine.
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