Merlot is one of the most popular grape varieties, it originated in France, and is now grown practically in every wine producing region in the world. This grape has a dark blue color and large berries with rather thin skin, which results in fewer tannins and higher sugar concentration in wine. It is best grown in well drained clay soil and slightly cooler climate. Merlot is widely used as a blending grape, and it is one of the primary grapes in Bordeaux wines. For example, the famous Chateau Petrus is 95% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. As a varietal wine, it has a medium body, soft texture and flavors of red berries, plums, and blackberries, and pairs well with grilled meats, salmon, salads or shellfish.
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This wine begins with aromas of candied walnuts and ripe raspberry jam. Dried cranberries mingle with sweet coconut and vanilla. The palate is bursting with flavors of blueberries and mocha. This wine has a structural core of powdery tannins that are lifted with a touch of acidity. This big, bold Merlot will pair well with many dishes and has amazing aging potential. These grapes were sorted in the vineyard with the selective harvest on our Pellenc harvesters. The fruit was not crushed in order to preserve as much whole berry as possible. At he winery, individual lots were fermented in stainless steel tanks. Twice daily pumpovers allowed gentle extraction of color and tannin. This wine was aged for 20 months in 28% New French & American Oak.