1995 Merlot, Sonoma County
Vintage
1995
Price
$16
Release Date
April 1997
Appellation
Sonoma County
Availability
Select Markets Nationally
Vineyards
- Alexander Valley - Larga Vista, Weinstock and Sandhu, Dry Creek, Lile, Errichetti
- Sonoma Valley - Sunnyslope, Rancho Salina, Serres and JVB
- Mendocino - Bells Echo
- Carneros - Bien Nacido, Santa Maria, Leveroni and Sangiacomo
- Sonoma Mountain - Loan Oak, Russian River, Benziger Family Ranch
Grapes
- 76% Merlot
- 19% Cabernet Sauvignon
- 5% Cabernet Franc
Vintage
The second of two outstanding vintages, the 1995 Merlot harvest began on September 21 and ended on October 27. Over the five-week period, the grapes achieved good ripeness and balance, producing bigger wines than normal. The 1995 red vintage produced wines with more power than finesse and should age longer than other vintages.
Vinification
26 lots were culled from the 20 ranches and fermented at temperatures ranging from 78° to 90° Fahrenheit in open and closed-top stainless steel fermentors for between seven and fifteen days. Then aged, 80% in American and 20% in French oak barrels for 12-15 months. Blending was a challenge because of the grapes' intensity and higher than normal tannin levels. The wines were blended, then bottled in March 1997. Alcohol: 13.5% Total Acidity: .65 pH: 3.44 residual sugar: .06 21,883 cases produced.
Tasting Notes
This Merlot reflects the power of the vintage without departing from the family style of richness and soft tannins. Bright blackberry and plum in the nose with hints of bramble, spice, coffee, tobacco and toasty vanillin. A rich complex Merlot with concentrated up-front flavors and persistent finish. Lovely now but will continue to improve for five or more years.