The grapes for the 2000 Merlot originated from our estate property in Dry Creek Valley. Harvest dates were September 16 and 17, 2000. Sugar at harvest was 24.7 degrees brix; ph was 3.42.The wine was fermented in a combination of temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks and open top fermenters. The tanks were pumped over twice a day and the fermentors punched down three times each day. After malolactic fermentation the new wine was racked to 60 gallon French and American oak barrels and aged for just over 15 months. After a light filtration, the total production of approximately 3,250 cases was bottled in June 2001.

 

This Merlot is characterized by mouth-filling flavors of blackberries, plum, tart cherry and spice. Delightful fruit, rounded by oak notes, blended with medium-light tannins. Dark ruby in color.

Re-tasted again in 2010, this wine is a beautiful example of how lovely Mill Creek Merlots can be with additional age. Fabulous!

 

Appellation: Estate, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, CA

Alcohol: 14.0%

pH: 3.34

Blend: 100% Merlot

Production: Stainless Steel & Open Top; 15 months American and French oak barrels

Cases Produced: 3250

Release Date: May 2003