MERLOT
VINTAGE 2002, TRINITY COUNTY
WINE DESCRIPTION
A wonderfully deep wine with complex aromas of fresh blueberries and strawberry jam on baked crusty bread, resting on sub-aromas of Marrakech tobacco and black strap molasses. Medium-bodied flavors of dried black currant, mulberry, orange zest and sage abound. Tannins of dark chocolate send off a lingering finish of buttery scones.
WINE MAKER’S NOTE
2002 began with a dry spring and moderate summer, producing an ideal growing season for our Merlot grapes. Harvested before the early fall freeze that occurred on October 1st, these grapes show the perfection of the season.
FOOD RECOMMENDATIONS
Roasted bone-in pork loin with a sage & cracked peppercorn rub garnished with caramelized red onion and roasted beets is a meal fit for this beautiful wine.
HYAMPOM VALLEY RANCH
The R. Merlo Estate Vineyards are located on the riverbanks of the wild and scenic South Fork of the Trinity River. Surrounded by 6000 ft. mountains on all sides, the vineyards are higher than most California vineyards, at an elevation of 1,250 feet. The valley floor has alluvial soils, allowing for excellent drainage and producing elegant yet complex flavors. The surrounding hillsides are composed of shallow native clay, which helps to create bold, well-structured wines. The growing season - a full three to four weeks later create bold, well-structured wines. The growing season - a full three to four weeks later than that of Napa or Sonoma - allows for a much slower ripening, increasing hang time and creating full concentrated flavors without over-ripening or depleting natural acids.
- GRAPE SOURCE Hyampom Valley, Trinity County, California
- AGING 16 months, in a combination of French & American Oak (approx. 22% new oak)
- TOTAL ACID/pH .66/3.59
- RESIDUAL SUGAR 0.2%
- ALCOHOL 14.4% Alcohol By Volume
- BOTTLING DATE September 2005
- PRODUCTION 642 Cases
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