Merlot 2022
$ 17.00One of our most important varietals grown in Virginia, according to soil type and vintage conditions it can produce very structured age-worthy wines or supple wines, approachable at younger age. This Merlot derives from a parcel with rich soil and therefore has been naturally producing a very fragrant Merlot yet with a softer palate structure compared to other sites within the estate that contribute tour our Merlot Reserve and Octagon.
Featured profile
food pairings
Vegetable and mushroom lasagna with a generous shaving of Parmigiano Reggiano
Carpaccio of Heirloom tomatoes, fried calamari and aioli
Merlot braised pork ribs and rosemary roasted Yukon gold potatoes
tasting notes
The wine shows aromas of plum, black cherry, and pomegranate, the texture is immediately firm, fresh and then gently softens exhibiting a long and satisfying finish
VINTAGE FACTORS
Cellar life 5 yrs
Another challenging season which started with very early budbreak in late March, followed by a 3 night of frost which impacted and reduced the yield of Chardonnay and Nebbiolo by 20%, three more frosty nights April did not cause further damage and the season normalized in early May inducing ideal bloom conditions for the clusters. Above average precipitation in June until early August made us a bit jittery, yet hopeful, and finally we started receiving some periods of sunshine, harvest started on August 21st on white varietals with good to very good quality especially on grapes picked in early September. Stellar-solar weather in the first 4 weeks of September gifted us with an opportunity to pick good to excellent fruit according to varietal and vineyard block combination. Another Octagon Vintage from Merlot Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, no Cabernet Sauvignon.
Fermentation
5-7 days at 82F
Post fermentation maceration
4-8 days according to the vintage
Composition
100% Merlot
Aging
12 months in used French oak barrels
Analysis
Alcohol, 12.5%
Residual Sugars, 0.1%
Total Acidity, 0.52%