Vineyard Sources

For our Special Vineyard Selection Merlot, two sites were chosen as truly outstanding vineyards in northern Dry Creek Valley. The name chosen for this vineyard blend describes the natural terraces that flank Dry Creek Valley and rise gradually into the hills. Characterized by sloped topography and gravelly/rocky residual soils, the "Bench Vineyards" offer unique growing conditions that bring out the best in several premium red wine varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The three vineyards herein described include the Pedroncelli Estate Vineyards along Dry Creek Road east of the winery, The Pillsbury Vineyard on the western bench, and Jasper Long's vineyard, a couple of miles down the road from our own Merlot plantings.

Winemaking

The 1999 harvest brought in ripe, clean fruit harvested the middle of September. The fruit was crushed into stainless steel fermentors and fermented for six days. The frequent pumping of juice over the skins (or cap) during this process brings to the wine a substantial increase in color and flavor intensity. The young wine was aged in small oak barrels for 13 months in order to develop smoothness and complexity.

Winemaker's Tasting Notes

"Ripe aromas of cherry, strawberry and spice highlight this Merlot. The supple texture, firm tannins, and lively flavors of cherry, plum and clove blend nicely. The finish is balanced with hints of tea and anise." John Pedroncelli

Technical Information

Appellation: Dry Creek Valley
Composition: 76% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc
Barrel Aging: 13 months in American oak
Alcohol: 13.8%
pH: 3.52
Total acidity: .58g/100ml
Bottled: June, 2001
Production: 10,000 cases

 

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