2017 Cannonball Merlot

ACCOLADES

90 pts 

Tasting Panel October 2019

WINEMAKER NOTES

Vintage 2017 brought abundant winter and springtime rainfall to California which was much-needed and allowed the vines to delay budbreak. Warm temperatures in early fall heated the fruit which allowed for ripening in mid-September and led to profound flavor development, color density, acid retention and tannin resolution in the fruit and resulting wine.
Medium ruby in color showing a bouquet of cherry and black tea accented by subtle sweet vanilla French oak and a fetching blueberry compote note.

The palate is generous and soft on approach, leading with supple cherry fruit and transitioning to richer boysenberry flavors on the mid-palate where the medium-firm tannins, caramel, and notes of clove and black pepper come into play. The vintage’s fresh acidity lends structure to this silky expression of Merlot leaving a lingering, savory finish.

We find that Merlot expresses its most appealing varietal character when grown in regions that experience warm afternoon temperatures balanced by cool nights and mornings. California’s Mendocino County has a rugged coastline and highlands that offer a generous range of soils and exposures in which to cultivate Merlot. The structure and framework of this wine was constructed from the Mendocino components while the lush, full body is attributable to our fruit sourced from a bit further inland, almost directly to the east in Clarksburg in Yolo County. Clarksburg boasts young clay soils, warm afternoons, and cool delta breezes that ripen berries to decadent richness.

Alc: 14.1% • pH: 3.70 • TA: 6.1 g/100mL

FOOD PAIRINGS

Enjoy with red meats, duck, and pasta with rich sauces.