Merlot
Established as one of the estate’s most important and consistent varietals, this classic Merlot is one of our most popular wines, for its very gratifying palate and food pairing manners. Supple, silky, yet with attractive tannic grip, the wine is forthcoming with luscious aromas and flavors which suggest it most frequently in everyday dining, and when a glass by itself is desired.
Vintage Factors
Year
2020
Cellar Life
4yrs
A unique and most challenging growing season, beginning with 8 nights of Spring frosts that reduced the yields. A wet late Spring, a record cold June followed by a very dry period in July, when we almost had to irrigate. Mid-Summer was a rollercoaster of rains followed by sunshine. At last we enjoyed a dry end of September for harvest. All white varietals show great aromatics, very fresh acidity, and medium structure. Our most reliable parcels of Nebbiolo, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot rewarded our dedication with very elegant and age-worthy wines, while Merlot sectors varied from very good to Octagon standard. Cabernet Sauvignon yielded a fragrant yet simpler style of red, and Octagon 2020 will be produced from Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, without Cabernet Sauvignon.
Vinification
Fermentation | 5-7 days on the skins in stainless steel |
Maceration | 5-7 days |
Composition | Merlot 90%, Cabernet Franc 10% |
Aging | 7 months, used French oak barriques |
Analysis | Alcohol, 12.5% |
Residual Sugars, 0.1% | |
Total Acidity, 0.52% |