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2007 Carneros Merlot
This finely balanced Merlot demonstrates how commitment to well-drained soils, open canopies and modest yields on cool Carneros vineyard sites results in full varietal expression. 2007 has proved to be an exceptional vintage. South of our winery, the Thimbleberry Block of our 335-acre estate vineyards clings to the hillsides of a small valley, producing Merlot in clay soils similar to those of Pomerol in Bordeaux. This Merlot exhibits exuberant fruit, textural richness and overall elegance.
Tasting Notes
The 2007 Merlot has a spicy nose with dark fruit and hints of tobacco and cedar. On the palate, this wine is elegantly structured with rich blackberries, currants, amid well integrated tannins. Drinkable now but will benefit from cellaring for 5-10 years.
Winemaking Notes
In 2007, a mild, frost-free spring with below average rainfall produced slightly early bud break. Bloom finished in May, undisturbed by rain or heat. Although clusters and berries were small, cluster counts were high, allowing thinning to desired crop levels. Three 100-degree-plus days at the end of August were followed by nearly four weeks of moderate temperatures. Long hang time with heat spikes produced a cool, orderly harvest with no dehydration or dimpling of the berries. The fruit was sound, ripe and small-berried with dark color, concentrated flavors and excellent acidity – all in all, an outstanding vintage.
• This is our tenth Carneros Merlot release
• 100% Carneros Estate Merlot
• Grapes de-stemmed, lightly crushed, fermented at 85°F, then given a three-day cold soak
• Gentle pump-overs three times daily
• Wine racked and returned to barrel every three months
• Aged 12 months in small (89%) French (9%) Hungarian (33%) new (2%) American oak barrels.
• Bottled unfined
Awards
2006 Vintage, 2011 Gold Medals
Florida State Fair
Grand Harvest Awards
Food Affinities
This Merlot is a great match with beef or rack of lamb. The fruit and acidity structure of this wine also pairs well with salmon, pork & wild game. Try it with sharp aged cheese and after dinner chocolate.
Analysis
Blend: 100% Carneros Merlot
