Vine Cliff Merlot 2001 Oakville

The grapes for our 2001 Oakville Merlot came from our Estate Vineyard located in Oakville. The Merlot grows on terraces on the side of a steep southwest facing slope overlooking the Winery. The soils are very shallow and rocky and the vines have to struggle to produce only a few pounds each of intensely flavored grapes. 5% Cabernet Sauvignon from an adjacent block was blended in for structure.

The grapes were hand picked, hand sorted then destemmed into small stainless steel tanks for fermentation. The grapes were cold soaked for 4 days before fermentation was started to enhance flavor and colort extraction. After 21 days the grapes were drained and presses into two thirds new French oak barrels where it aged for 19 months in our wine cave.

AROMA: Floral, red cherry, plum and wild strawberry with hints of vanilla, cocoa and nutneg ripe and opulent.

PALATE: Red raspberry and plum fruit flavors with nuances of vanilla and milk chocolate. Rich and ripe with round supple tannins, a silky texture and long finish with hints of black tea.

Purchase Vine Cliff Merlot 2001 Oakville

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