Merlot
Blend: 100% Merlot
Vineyard & AVA: Shell Ridge Vineyard, Adelaida District, Paso Robles CA
Alcohol: 15.5%
Aging: Enjoy now, or lay down for 10-15 years.
THE SONG
This song holds a special place in my heart, as it was introduced to me by my father-in-law. The lyrics tell a story of love and heartbreak, which takes me back to a time when I was just starting to date my now-wife. I remember the pain of being left behind when she went off to college in Hawaii. However, like Alan Jackson, who wrote the song as a tribute to his wife, we persevered through the hardships, and have now been happily married for 18 years. The song's lyrics remind us of the journey we've been through, from making vows to experiencing the ups and downs of life.
Despite the difficulties, we've learned to appreciate each other more and more. The song acknowledges the changes that come with time, but Jackson's lyrics also mark the milestones that brought the couple back together. The song ends with a reminder that there is still so much more to come in their love story, and even the hard moments will be something to cherish. It's a beautiful ode to true love and the struggles that come with it.
Vintage Notes
The Harvest began in the last week of August with early ripening varieties. The heat spikes in August and September caused some vineyards to pick varieties not typically ready at that time, which was around 10 days earlier than normal.
September into October continued to be warm yet averaging on what would be considered normal conditions. Wineries are reporting high acidity, exceptional flavor development, and deep color extraction that will all lead to a well-balanced 2020 vintage.
Vinification
Fermented on native yeast, on skin for 14-18 days. Aged for 24 months in 228L French oak barriques, 100% new.
Tasting Notes
It’s an opulent wine, expressing classic Merlot characteristics in a deeply concentrated way. We’ve got brooding aromas of violets and blackberries on the nose, with inflections of herbal notes. The palate further elaborates the small fruits while adding briny and green olive component, while the herbs are underpinned with notes of coffee beans and baking spice.
This Merlot finishes with striking balance and finesse, making it a true example of where the old world meets the new world of wines.
$85