WARNING: Drinking distilled spirits, beer, coolers, wine and other alcoholic beverages may increase cancer risk, and, during pregnancy, can cause birth defects. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/alcohol.
Winemaking Processes: These fully mature grapes were picked at their peak and delivered to the winery after being selected by our winemaker. After undergoing extended fermentation and maceration, the wine was transferred into small oak barrels and placed into our underground caverns to ensure a fuller, richer, finer wine of true varietal character. Hand blasted by local miners, many whose families came for gold in the 1800’s, these caverns remain a natural 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round temperature which slowly lowers the wine’s alcohol while preserving its concentration of flavor.
Our Winemaker’s Notes: The Reserve 2021 Merlot is an elegant, rich yet soft wine full of aromas and flavors of black cherries and plums followed by vanilla oak notes. A long finish that is sure to delight.
Chef Recommends: Merlot is a wine that pairs well with both light and hearty dishes. It’s an excellent choice for chicken Marsala, roasted pork and roasted or grilled red meats.
Wine Specs
Aging
24 months French and American Oak
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
100% 2016 Calaveras County Merlot
Vineyard Notes
Located at 2400 ft. above sea level, these grapes are estate-grown at our Hay Station Ranch vineyard where warm days are cooled by the evening mountain air. This areas unique soil of decomposed granite mixed with volcanic sediment and red clay produce a wonderful mineral component. Grapes have been grown in the Sierra Foothills for 150 years.
Production Notes
Very limited release of 250 cases only. 2 years barrel aged.
Winemaker Notes
The 2016 Reserve Merlot is a first-class wine deserving of high respect. Generous fruit notes with hints of nutmeg and cloves. Raspberry, black cherry and mouthwatering plums make way for a smooth, structured finish with silky flavors of chocolate and spice.
Food Pairing Notes
Merlot wine matches with a wide variety of foods because of its position in the middle of the red wine spectrum. Some of the best proteins to match with Merlot are in the middle-weight category. Think roast duck, turkey, and lean cuts of beef. You might also consider baked pasta dishes like lasagna, as well as spicy rice dishes such as jambalaya.
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