1999 Reserve Merlot, Sonoma County
Vintage
1999
Price
$42
Release Date
September 2002
Appellation
Sonoma County
Availability
Select Markets Nationally
Vineyards
- Sonoma Valley - Sunny Slope & Rose Vineyards
- Alexander Valley - Ash Creek & Pusich Vineyards
- Carneros - Sangiacomo
Download
- Wine Notes [.pdf 19k]
Vintage
Each year, as part of our Reserve program, we select the best blocks from the best vineyards, which are then kept separate through the winemaking process until being selected, barrel-by-barrel, for the final blend. For growing seasons with unique personality, 1999 did not disappoint. We did see some hot weather but much less than normal. We had good weather for bud- break and bloom that helped insure a good set. Because of the late season, which creates the potential for fruit not to ripen - we employed judicious irrigation during the summer to control growth and uniformity and we crop thinned after verasion to aid in ripening. As we entered mid September (latest ever), we needed heat and got it. Once harvest began in earnest in late September things went very quickly, by October 23rd it was effectively over.
Vinification
Grapes with the finest track record were culled, crushed and cold-soaked on their skins by lot for two to four days at 55 degrees, then fermented for eight days in 3/4 ton open-top fermentors at 85 to 95 degrees, and punched down daily by hand. Extended maceration provided maximum extraction. The wines underwent malolactic fermentation and were aged in 100% French oak barrels for 18 months. Alcohol 14.5, Total Acidity 5.68, pH 3.55, Residual Sugar - dry. Cases produced: 2,831.
Tasting Notes
This full-bodied Reserve Merlot exhibits a forward nose of cherry, and sweet earth aromas. Flavors are of cedar, black fruit and oak toast with a creamy texture, moderate tannins and a bright berry finish. Properly cellared, our Reserve Merlot will age 7-10 years.