Merlot
Merlot is a challenging grape to grow due to its tendency to develop green flavors and tannins. To mitigate this, we employ strict canopy management techniques, including twice-weekly sucker removal, selective leaf plucking, and bunch thinning. This ensures optimal sunlight exposure for the grapes, promoting blackcurrant and red fruit characters while preventing green tannins.
Winemaking Process
Hand-picked grapes are destemmed but not crushed, ensuring high-quality fermentation. The fermentation process occurs in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature, with regular aeration for a clean ferment and soft tannins. After gentle pressing, malolactic fermentation completes in the tank.
Aging
A portion of the wine is aged in oak barrels for added complexity, while the remainder is aged in stainless steel to preserve freshness.
Vintage Characteristics
The 2020 vintage was a relief after several years of drought. Despite an unusual spring with extreme heat and cold, the grapes remained healthy and produced concentrated wines with strong varietal character.
Tasting Notes and Food Pairing
The Merlot offers aromas of ripe cherry, smoky coffee, and spice. It has a soft palate with a good structure for medium-term aging. The winemaker suggests pairing it with a spring rack of lamb or lamb shank, served pink with fresh herbs or spring vegetables.
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