Merlot 2006

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Winemaker's Tasting Notes

Southern Oregon can produce exceptional Merlot, but such quality requires astute vineyard management practices.

The fruit from Pheasant Hill and Alta Seca Vineyards in the Rogue and our estate Fault Line Vineyards in the Umpqua all are grown on steep hillsides, with low crop loads, and meticulous attention to detail.

Once harvested we gently coax the licorice, blackberry, plum, black currant, and cassis aromas and flavors from the fruit with minimal handling in the winery.

Tasteful and integrated oak and seamlessly balanced acidity allow the fruit to take center stage on the palate and through the finish.  

We anticipate improvement over the next three to five years and suggest pairing it with roasted quail in phyllo with morel-blackberry demi glace or Prime rib and horseradish cream.

Technical Notes

Fruit Source:
Abacela’s Fault Line Vineyards, Umpqua Valley
Alta Seca Vineyard, Rogue Valley
Pheasant Hill Vineyard, Rogue Valley

Appellation: Southern Oregon

Harvest Date: 3, 7, 10, 15, 18, 23, 25 & 27 October 2006

Varietal Composition: Merlot 83%, Cabernet Sauvignon 8%, Cabernet franc 6%, Petit Verdot 3%

At harvest:  Sugar; 24.2° brix   pH; 3.82  TA; 5.14 grams/liter

Cooperage: French (83%), American (17%), 6% New, 59% 2-yo, 35% Neutral

At Bottling:  Sugar; Nil

Bottling date: 7 May 2008

Case Production: 889 (750 mL)

Alcohol: 13.9% by volume

Release Date:  11 June 2008

S R P: $19.50 (750 mL)

2005 PETIT VERDOT-->