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Wine Details
Price:
$26.00 per bottle
Description:
The deep red color of the wine prepares me for this intensely aromatic and lush Merlot. Distinct, mouthwatering scents of cocoa, cassis and dried herbs clearly tie the wine to its origins: the vineyards of the Carneros region. The fruit flavors are dense, and the tannins mature – byproducts of careful winemaking and an indication the wine will age well. I think of this as Old World style, a classic Right Bank Bordeaux blend reflecting Carneros terroir. A serious Merlot, the wine is rich, complex and lasting.
The 2001 Carneros Merlot has both substance and structure, a tasteful match for full-flavored lamb or wild duck dishes. I also confidently pair this rich wine with spicy, salty dishes such as Spaghetti alla Puttanesca.
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Varietal Definition
Merlot:
Merlot is known as a Noble Bordeaux varietal. Although it came to France in the first century, it was not named until the 1880s. Merlot was originally used only for blending, as it is soft and compliant, very useful in softening other Bordeaux wines like Cabernets. Recently in California and Chile it became popular as a 100% varietal wine. Merlot tends to be easier to grow in a variety of soil conditions and is harvested earlier in the year than Cabernet. Although most Merlots are made to be drunk earlier, there are many with complexities of a Cabernet. Flavors of plum, black cherry, violet, chocolate and orange pair well with rich, red pasta dishes, hearty chicken dishes, and any beef combination that you fancy. The perfect match of course is chocolate. Not only does the chocolate compliment the wine and vice-versa, but the essence of both flavors linger eternally.
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