1997 Merlot, Blue Rock Vineyard, Alexander Valley
Vintage
1997
Price
$32
Release Date
June 2000
Appellation
Alexander Valley
Availability
Only at the Winery
Vineyards
Blue Rock Vineyards
Grapes
100% Merlot
Vintage
Blue Rock Vineyards in northern Alexander Valley has all the right ingredients to produce exceptional Merlot- including, in 1997, tremendous weather. The growing season began early with warm weather for the critical points of bud break and bloom and remained warm throughout the summer, pushing the crop ahead of schedule. Blue Rock Vineyards produced a slightly larger than average crop which allowed the fruit to mature at a more even rate - promoting mature tannins and great extract.
Vinification
The warm summer gave us fully ripe fruit with lots of body and the structure to carry a big wine. We harvested on September 10th and crushed into open top tanks. The fermentation lasted seven days, after which the wine was placed in French and American oak for 16 months. This 100% Merlot was bottled in July of 1999. 3.67 pH, .51 TA, .03 RS
Tasting Notes
Aromas of black cherry, light mint and oak. Flavors of earthy-cherry,boysenberry and light-spicy oak. Concentrated mouthfeel and full tannins with the bright fruit flavors carrying through the finish.