Nose
One of the most complex aromas I’ve ever seen on any Merlot. Exploding out of the glass are ripe red fruits, candle was, violet and other floral aromas, caramel, graham crackers, and a puree of bramble fruits. On the second day, a beautiful not of chocolate and coffee appear, along with the fantastic note of sweet earth and dust.
Palate
The acid of the wine is very refreshing and balances the long, lush, soft mouthfeel. The wine has laser precision and is quite structured for Merlot — and while drinking great now, will reward a few years of aging.
Winemaking
2007 sticks in my mind as the "perfect" year. Totally unremarkable for its lack of extremes. It was simply idyllic. Finishing with a cool August meant the Merlots-which are always first to harvest-came in with refreshing acid levels and overall perfect fruit chemistry.
Aging
Aged in new and second-fill French and American oak barrels for 16 months.