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Wine Details
Price:
$26.00 per bottle
Description:
The 2003 Merlot - Aguila Vineyard, thrives in this relatively cool site. While other area vines may shut down photosynthesis due to excessive heat, this high, breezy spot enables even development of the fruit. The result is an elegant, well balanced wine; jammy with hints of cocoa. We were told recently that the Merlot pairs well with foods naturally rich in umami. So I researched what umami was and learned it is one of the "basic tastes" (just like sweet, sour and salty). Basically, umami is the savoury flavor imparted by the natural presence of glutamate. This means the Merlot works best with mushrooms, cured ham, parmesan cheese, seaweed, asparagus, most fish and meat. Drink now through 2007.
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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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