1999 Private Reserve Merlot
750ml Bottle

Current Release
$60.00

Quantity:  

Over 25% of our vineyard is planted with our flagship varietal Merlot. This Private Reserve Merlot was the original red varietal released by the winery back in 1982, and continues to be a favorite amongst red wine enthusiasts. Limited Production.

The Vineyard
Four different blocks of Merlot were planted on the winery’s Estate Vineyard in 1996, encompassing over 25% of the total vineyard plantings. The vineyard is located in South Monterey County’s Lockwood Valley, a coastal valley on the western Santa Lucia Mountain Range a short 14 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Only 5 acres were hand harvested for this Private Reserve wine, consisting of the only quadrilateral vines planted on the vineyard. Controlled vigor as a result of quadrilateral trellising enables fruit to develop fully, displaying true varietal character and ultimate complexity in the wine. The vineyard’s southwest location brings warmer daytime temperatures with diurnal temperature variations exceeding 50 degrees throughout the growing season. This ensures the balance of acidity in the ripe, full development of fruit. An ideal coarse, gravely loam soil with low moisture levels enable controlled water management practices early season, ultimately resulting in intense, vibrant fruit on the vine.

The Vintage
While the 1999 growing season was worrisome for many Monterey County growers, our southern location and absence from bay fog patterns resulted in moderate temperatures throughout a slightly cooler growing season. A light frost in the spring ultimately reduced yields, although quality remained high. Extended hang time on the vine, and a number of chilly nights to lock in the acids resulted in a stellar year for the red grapes due to ripe, tannic skins and high alcohol. Harvest date: September 16, 1999

Winemaking Notes
Produced from 100% Merlot grapes. The grapes were crushed for minimal maceration and inoculated with Pris de Mousse yeast to maintain many of the fruit components. Fermented warm up to 85 degrees, the juice was pumped over 2 times daily to increase the color and tannin extract in the wine. At dryness, skins remained in contact with the juice to maximize tannin extraction. The wine was then pressed off and allowed to settle until completion of malolactic fermentation. Aged in 100% new French Never oak barrels from cooper Nadalie. Racked annually, and aged for 26 months.

Tasting Notes
Robust black cherry, berry and cedar aromas accented by a subtle oak edge and hints of vanilla. This wine is full bodied with moderate tannins and ripe, intense fruit.A nice complexity and texture through a smooth, lingering finish. Will age nicely for up to ten years.