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Merlot, Seven Hills Vineyard

Merlot, Seven Hills Vineyard Wine Details
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Description: The Grande Ronde Cellars 2001 Merlot is a blend of 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet from Seven Hills Vineyard. The Merlot has overtones of berry, currant and chocolate. On the palate the wine blends its fruit with soft tannins. The wine has an exceptionally long finish. It is a deep ruby color. Best to drink from 2005-2012.

Varietal Definition
Merlot:
Merlot is known as a Noble Bordeaux varietal. Although it came to France in the first century, it was not named until the 1880s. Merlot was originally used only for blending, as it is soft and compliant, very useful in softening other Bordeaux wines like Cabernets. Recently in California and Chile it became popular as a 100% varietal wine. Merlot tends to be easier to grow in a variety of soil conditions and is harvested earlier in the year than Cabernet. Although most Merlots are made to be drunk earlier, there are many with complexities of a Cabernet. Flavors of plum, black cherry, violet, chocolate and orange pair well with rich, red pasta dishes, hearty chicken dishes, and any beef combination that you fancy. The perfect match of course is chocolate. Not only does the chocolate compliment the wine and vice-versa, but the essence of both flavors linger eternally.


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