“An elegant and restrained wine with subtle blue fruit supporting a cherry and cranberry core. Mint and cocoa powder assert themselves well for a release of this age, showing the value of flavor character in some of the oldest vines in the John Anthony portfolio. This Merlot continues to exhibit an old-world charm.”

In the Vineyard:
Year Planted: 1996

Varietal: Merlot
Clone: French
Sub Appellation: Oak Knoll District
Vineyard: Crane (3.5 acres)
Harvest Date: September, 17th 2015

In the Cellar:
Bottling: 97 cases produced
Barrel Aging: 20 months in 100% French oak: 75% new, 25% neutral