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Merlot Library - Cucamonga Valley

Merlot Library Reserve - Cucamonga Valley Wine Details
Price: $22.00 per bottle

Description: In French, the word MERLOT translates "young blackbird" likely alluding to the grape's beautiful dark-blue color. It is the most widely planted red varietal in Bordeaux and the primary grape of Saint-Emilion and Pomerol and the most complementing varietal in famous Bordeaux blends. California of course offers a wide range of Merlot styles. 2002 Library Reserve Merlot is only the second Cucamonga Valley Merlot release to date. Grown at the historic Hippard Ranch in Etiwanda (Est 1882). We planted this small vineyard in 1997. Hippard Ranch terroir has proved to be an excellent site for the elegant and rich Merlot grape. Aged 8 months in French and American white oak barrels. Only 497 cases released. Deep red color with fresh aromas of rich blackberries, currants, coffee and chocolate. Packed with flavor, elegant round tannins and a big finish with light oak and spice. Pairs well with roasts of beef, chicken, duck, lamb, hearty stews and spicy pastas. Enjoy now or cellar to 2009.

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.
Saint-Emilion:
Has no relationship to the Bordeaux district. Is the Cognac region local name for the Ugni Blanc grape from which is produced the wine used for distilling into the fortified wine known as "cognac brandy". Alone, it creates a thin low-sugar wine in cool temperate regions and must be distilled in order to concentrate the alcohol content and so make the strong fortified wine of some fame from the Cognac region of France.


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