Sonoma Valley Merlot 2023 Appellation Collection
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America / Sonoma County
This wine shows off the rich, aromatic fruit grown in Sonoma. Surrounded by the Sonoma Mountains to the west and the Mayacamas to the east, the valley provides perfect conditions for Merlot. Summer days are cooled by evening breezes and fog from the Pacific, resulting complex flavors and aromas. Fruit is sourced from two vineyards: Behler Estate for flavor and balanced acidity, and Dinner, high atop Sonoma Mountain for depth and structure. After hand-sorting, the grapes underwent a 2-day cold soak to extract color and flavor. The wine was then aged in 100% French oak barrels, 55% new, where it underwent malolactic fermentation, followed by 20 months of aging.
Harvest Note
Cooler temperatures and spring rains in 2023 pushed back the first day of harvest to the beginning of September. The later start and extra ripening time allowed flavors and color to develop for depth and concentration. Warm fall days spread harvest to the end of October, with a final pick of Merlot delivered to the winery on November 2.
Tasting Note
A classic, flavorful Merlot, this wine features aromas of savory spices, crushed dark berries and plum. Structure and tannins complement layered flavors of cherry preserves, baker’s chocolate and a hint of grilled fennel before the wine finishes with a lift of quenching acidity.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Merlot
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
ABV: 14.80%
AGING: 20 Months in French Oak, 55% New
Unique Selling Points
- Wine Sourced from California Certified Sustainable Winery & Vineyards
- Fruit sourced from Sonoma County
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