Rombauer, Napa Valley Merlot
| Country | United States |
|---|---|
| Grape variety | Merlot |
| Brand/Winery | Rombauer |
| Color | Red |
| Flavor profile | Expressive, Juicy, Full Bodied |
| Area | California |
| USP's |
• Since producing our first vintage of Merlot in 1983, Rombauer has been committed to making the best possible expression of the variety with attention to site selection and farming. • Cool Carneros climate allows the thin-skinned grapes to gradually develop flavor and tannin while retaining natural acidity. • #3 Merlot at +$25. |
| Vinification | Grown in estate-owned and grower-partner vineyards on the Napa side of Carneros, where the clay soils are similar to those of Bordeaux’s right bank. The cool climate allows the thin-skinned grapes to gradually develop flavor and tannins while retaining natural acidity. There were light rains in January and February and then no notable precipitation occurred for the rest of the growing season. This allowed the fruit to flower and set beautifully, leading into a warm summer without major heat spikes. Sustainable farming practices throughoutthe growing season were tailored to each block with the assistance of aerial photos produced using NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) technology. Ideal conditions allowed us to pick each block at its optimal ripeness and at night to preserve its natural acidity. The grapes were carefully destemmed and optically sorted to ensure only perfect fruit made it into the wine. A cold soak extracted color and flavor before a combination of tank and barrel fermentation was used to provide a richer, more textured palate. The wine was gently basket-pressed before being racked to French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation and aging. Blackberry and ripe plum aromas lift out of the glass, mingling with decadent fresh piecrust, cinnamon, and other baking spices. These flavors continue to the fullbodied palate where the ripe blackberry and spice are followed by hints of vanilla. Soft tannins round out the sip which ends with a long and silky finish. |
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