1996 Reserve Merlot, Sonoma County
Vintage
1996
Price
$33
Release Date
January 1999
Appellation
Sonoma County
Availability
Select Markets Nationally
Vineyards
- Sangiacomo & Ricci Vineyards
- Carneros
- Benziger Sonoma Valley Vineyard
- Sonoma Valley Taylor Vineyard
- Dry Creek
Grapes
- 96% Merlot
- 4% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage
The 1996 vintage was distinguished by a warm growing season and a smaller than average crop. The majority of the fruit for this wine comes from the Carneros region where the morning fog and afternoon winds keep temperatures cooler; extending the time the grapes spend on the vine. This "hang time" develops more complex flavors, greater texture and dark color.
Vinification
Grapes with the finest track record were culled, crushed and cold-soaked on their skins by lot for between two and four days at 55 degrees Fahrenheit, then fermented for eight days in 3/4 ton open-top fermentors at between 85-95 degrees Fahrenheit, punched down daily by hand. The wines underwent malolactic fermentation and were aged in 100% French oak barrels for 18 months. This wine was bottled, unfiltered, in July, 1998. Alcohol 13.4%. 1490 cases produced.
Tasting Notes
This full bodied Merlot exhibits a forward nose of cherry and plum fruits. In the mouth the wine shows a velvet-like texture with deep, rich fruit. The finish is long with some noticeable tannins. Will be at its peak in five to seven years. Best with rich foods such as lamb chops, portobello mushrooms, or full-flavored aged cheeses.