Starting with the elegant, briary, fruity and fabulous Merlot from Alexander Valley, winemaker Erik Olsen ferments the must in stainless steel to fully capture the fruity character of these grapes. Then a 22-month residence in barrels lends an elegant layer of toasty French oak to the ripe cherry and raspberry flavors. Incredibly aromatic, this Reserve Merlot offers aromas of violets, black cherry, plum and mocha that introduce forward berry/cherry fruit flavors and balanced oak tannins, followed by a long finish with oak and chocolate notes.
Merlot is the red wine grape in France's Bordeaux region. Although still overshadowed by Cabernet Sauvignon, it has been gaining popularity especially in the United States, South America, Italy and Australia. Merlot has often been blended with other grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon which enhances the structure and flavor that Merlot lacks. Merlot is now primarily popular as a varietal wine.
Merlot-based wines usually have medium body with hints of berry, plum and currant.
Softer, fruitier Merlots from Washington State and Northeastern Italy, go well with dishes like salmon, mushroom based dishes and greens like chard and radicchio. Read More...
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