2005 Carneros Merlot

88 points, Best Buy - Connoisseur's Guide to California Wine

Vintage

Timely budbreak in March 2005 kicked off a relatively normal season. Some light rains in spring missed Carneros during bloom and fruit set, so our crop levels were average to slightly above average in most blocks. The heavy fruit set required aggressive fruit thinning throughout the growing season to achieve optimal fruit development. We harvested this Merlot between October 19th and 28th after a very cool September and warmer October during which the fruit developed great concentration and complexity.

Winemaking

The Merlot grapes were handpicked at night to preserve fruit character.  The grapes were then hand-sorted on our belt system and gently destemmed before a five day cold soak which increases color, fruit essence and structure.  Following primary and malolactic fermentation in open top fermentors, the wine was aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels (33% new) for 13 and-a-half months.  For the final blend, a small amount of Syrah was added to bring more depth and complexity to the finished wine.

Winemaker's Notes

This 2005 Carneros Merlot is beautifully balanced and rich, a testament to our Carneros estate fruit, showing aromas of cassis and roasted coffee beans are followed by toasty oak, black cherry and sweet vanilla and flavors of black cherry, green tea and spice with hints of earth and tobacco. It has a supple mouthfeel and finishes with polished tannins.  This versatile wine pairs well with many dishes, including roasted tomato-sauce on pasta, rack of lamb or herb roasted chicken.  It is equally delicious paired with a cheese course featuring aged Gouda or a tangy blue cheese like Point Reyes.

Past Vintages

2004 Carneros Merlot
2002 Carneros Merlot
2001 Carneros Merlot
1999 Carneros Merlot
1998 Carneros Merlot
1997 Carneros Merlot