The fruit for our Classic Sonoma County Merlot comes from vineyards in Sonoma County's Alexander and Dry Creek Valleys. Extended maceration enhances color, flavor and mouthfeel, and aging for 18 months in 60-gallon oak barrels adds softness and a subtle vanillin component. We blend small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon to add structure and complexity, which enlivens the subtle texture and plum-like fruitiness that is the hallmark of fine Merlot.
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...
Badger North 850 South Morris St. Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1137 Phone: 920.923.8160 Toll-Free: 800.242.9708 Fax: 920.923.8169
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