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Merlot, Michael Black Vineyard, Napa Valley

Merlot, Michael Black Vineyard, Napa Valley Wine Details
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Description: This wine is a profoundly saturated blue/black with aromas of violets and blackberries exuding from the glass. On the palate the wine reveals richness wrapped with black cherry, vanilla and dark chocolate. Traces of earth and cedar complete this intriguing "cabernet lover’s merlot" with firm yet silky tannins and a heady finish. This is a massive yet supple and stylish wine to enjoy for years to come. Aged 21 months in 62% new French oak and 15% new American oak.

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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