2016 Merryvale Chairman's Selection Red Wine

Winemaking

Our Chairman’s Selection Red Wine is a Cabernet-based blend sourced from select hillside vineyards in Napa Valley. Every vintage, In 2016, the fruit was harvested in early October, double sorted upon arrival at the winery and fermented in a 5-ton tank. Native fermentation started after a 5-day cold soak and total time in tank went from 15 to 20 days with daily pump overs. Malolactic fermentation occurred in barrel and the wine was racked every 6 months. The wine was aged for 22 months in 60% new French oak barrels and bottled without fining or filtration.

Vintage

The near-perfect 2016 growing season started early and saw ideal weather conditions throughout. Thanks to a relatively steady and mild July and August and then a series of warm days at the end of the growing season, vineyards were able to progress to perfect ripeness.

Tasting Notes

The Chairman’s Selection showcases mountain vineyards and the incredible character that they produce—wines with intensity and power. On the nose the wine shows tones of plum, mocha, cacao, savory herbs and a touch of oak. The mouth is broad with a touch of acid starting on the front of the palate, then the sweetness shows through, further broadening the wine. Fairly weighty, but with great balance and softness at the same time. It shows incredible character without being heavy. With proper cellaring, this wine will drink beautifully for the next 10 to 15 years.

Blend: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec

Vineyards: Stagecoach plus other select vineyards

Cooperage: 22 months in 60% new French oak barrels

Alc: 14.5%

pH: 3.8

TA: 5.5 g/L