2007 Merlot

Vintage Report

Spring and early summer were normal with the weather during bloom very good, and so an excellent fruit set occurred. Despite the onset of La Niña in the autumn, significant work on canopy management including leaf thinning, cluster pruning, careful fruit exposure, and irrigation management allowed us to proceed into the fall with berry growth and ripeness as expected and the fruit in excellent condition. Chief Winemaker John Simes comments, “early tastings of the whites are highly aromatic and lively, with a natural balance of fruitiness and the young reds indicate a pleasing suppleness of tannins and excellent colour. Overall, the colour, flavours, tannins and acidity all matured together beautifully and initial tasting reveals well-balanced wines.”

Tasting Notes

This elegant wine is smooth and balanced with lush layers of black plum, cherry and ripe summer berries. The palate is enhanced by anise and cocoa, which mingle with alluring notes of sweet oak for a long finish. Rich and full bodied, the Reserve Merlot has been aged in French oak for 17 months.

Winemaker’s Notes