2005 Suisun Valley Merlot
The Blend: 92% Merlot 8% Cabernet Sauvignon
Winemaker: Matt Smith
Production: 350 cases
Winemaking: The Merlot is cold soaked before fermentation for three to four days to extract color and flavor without any harsh or dry tannins. Fermentations are done in one-ton bins and are laboriously hand punched down three times a day. The wine is aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels chosen to seamlessly meld together into a background of aromas and mid-palate texture. A small addition of Cabernet Sauvignon adds depth and richness to round out this popular offering.
TECHNICAL DATA Alcohol: 13.5% TA: 0.65 PH: 3.63 Appellation: Suisun Valley Release Date: December 2007
The Wine: The Winterhawk Merlot exhibits a richly textured mid-pallet with fine grain tannins. The bouquet boasts of chocolate and lavender elegantly melding together with violets, olives, fresh pipe tobacco and hints of cherry and dark cocoa.
Serve With: Pair this beautiful wine with marinated tri-tip, smoked pork ribs, and rich pasta sauces.
Price: $18.00/bottle
