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This Merlot established the winery's significant role as a Merlot producer nationwide over ten years ago. Soft tannins and subtle oak balance out the fruit in this medium bodied wine
The Barrel Selected label was introduced to the Château Julien wine portfolio in 1998. These wines typically have mild tannins and forward fruit, making them extremely food-friendly and approachable upon release. The Barrel Selected wines are aged in one-to-three year old French and American oak barrels, and have been awarded numerous value accolades over the years.
THE VINEYARD
This wine was produced solely from grapes grown in the Monterey County appellation. Winemaker Bill Anderson recently expanded beyond our own vineyard to explore quality, diversity and unique varietal characteristics through additional local vineyard partnerships. Long term relationships based on nearly 30 years of local wine production has allowed Anderson the fl exibility to draw from multiple sources to produce the best quality and value for our Barrel Selected wines. This wine was
harvested from vineyards in the warmer regions of south Monterey County, where warm daytime temperatures are followed by cool nights to ensure ripe fruit development and balanced acidity.
THE VINTAGE
A cold spring slightly delayed vine development at the beginning of the 2009 growing season, and was followed by warm temperatures and variable weather through the bloom period. An extended warm period in late August and early September ultimately advanced grape maturation, and the bulk of the harvest was done during September and October prior to rains. Yields were close to average.
WINEMAKING NOTES
Aged for 14 months in 1- and 2-year-old French and American medium toast oak barrels after 12 days of warm, temperature-controlled fermentation on the skins.
TASTING NOTES
Forward fruit aromas of ripe plum, cherry and soft raspberry balance mild tannins and a hint of cedar. A full bodied palate with complexity through the fi nish.
Press88
POINTS
Clear ruby color. A pretty, varietal nose of red cherries and berries, with leather and spice notes adding complexity. Medium in body; nicely balanced, with a supple mouthfeel. The spiced berry and cherry follows through to the end. BEST BUY Wine Info88
POINTS
"Tangy and bright with lively plum, spice and silky texture; earthy and dense with nice structure and length. A super value." - The Return of Merlot, Anthony Dias Blue, July 2011 Wine Info90
POINTS
“A very good wine and an excellent value. A wine for which customers will keep coming back. A chunky and fleshier style of merlot; hints of cocoa and black fruits in the nose; medium-bodied and mouth-filling and a long lasting finish.” – Beverage Dynamics National Retailer Wine Panel, Growth Brand Winners – the Fastest-Selling Wines in the U.S. March/April 2011 Download Wine InfoBEST BUY
POINTS
"Plum, chocolate nuts, and cracked pepper aromas with a tangy medium-to-full body and a crisp, dried apple and citrus accented dusty tannin finish." Wine Info |
** NEW RELEASE **
A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon & Syrah
Saturday, April 14, 2012 Experience our 30-year tradition of hand-crafted wines with a special vintage tasting of Chateau... |
