California’s Central Coast is a key growing region for this Merlot, as Monterey fruit is joined by select lots from Mendocino, Lake and the Delta growing regions. Merlot is the star here, featured in 88% of the blend, with spice rack suggestions offered by touches of Syrah, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. At harvest grapes are crushed directly to stainless fermenters, then cold-soaked to gain a rich, garnet ruby color. After a slow fermentation with twice-daily pump-overs the Merlot is evaluated to gain optimal flavor and color prior to undergoing malolactic fermentation. Aging is enhanced with oak and maturation is carefully monitored, with bottling once flavors are integrated and layered with complexity.

Wine maker notes

A deep, rich ruby red color hints at the warm cherry aromas to come, accented by distinct notes of red licorice, sage and toffee. Soft, round tannins make this an easy drinking, pleasant wine with flavors of bountiful black cherries and plums, balanced with caramel and toffee from the French and American oak. This is a vintage which helps remind us why so many of us enjoy Fetzer Merlot. Alcohol 13.5% • Total Acidity .59gms/100ml • pH 3.49 • RS .38 Select Lots Aged 10-12 Months in Oak