"Dark ruby in the glass, this Merlot has bright red fruit on the nose with a hint of anise.  On the front palate it delivers the anticipated blackcurrant and cherry flavors, but with surprisingly structured chewy tannins, that then give way to darker blackberry notes and a hint of sweet allspice.  Aged eighteen months in new French oak barrels, this Napa Valley Merlot from our Oak Knoll District Crane Vineyard is rich, complex and surprising."

In the Vineyard:
Year Planted: 1996
Varietal: Merlot
Clone: French
Sub Appellation: Oak Knoll District
Vineyard: Crane (3.5 acres)
Harvest Date: October 21st, 2013