♦ 2007 Merlot ♦

Vineyard: Zayante Vineyard
Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains
Wine: 100% Merlot
Alcohol: 13.1%
Production: 220 cases

We are very excited about now being able to make a Merlot from Santa Cruz Mountains grapes. We have always been known for making a Cabernet Sauvignon lover’s type of Merlot and we believe using these mountain grapes makes it even more that way. The vineyard is situated at around 1,200 feet of elevation on the west side of the Santa Cruz Mountains. This vineyard location is perfect for having enough heat to fully ripen the fruit while at the same time having some really cool nights which maintains a higher acid balance and makes for a deeply fruity wine that goes great with food.

This wine has many layers of fruit, with a deep cherry and chocolate character in both the aroma and flavors. The wine is rich, round and full in the mouth and shows off Merlot’s unique ability to create a very big and intense wine with a soft and velvety structure. This Merlot will stand up to any food you would pair with a Cabernet Sauvignon but will be approachable sooner and not hit your wallet quite so hard.