2010 Merlot

We proudly include Merlot in our small family of wines as a varietal that excels at our estate Margarita Vineyard. Here, ancient sea bed soils and pronounced marine conditions guide the fruit optimal maturity, allowing for the retention of true varietal character. The result is a wine that captures the essence of Merlot, with silky fruit flavors and a luscious texture.

“89 POINTS…BEST BUY.”
-Wine & Spirits Magazine

“OUTSTANDING…Mocha and juicy red cherry."
-Tasting Panel Magazine

“A JUICY, FULL-BODIED WINE with great intensity and balance.”
-Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

“EXCEPTIONAL…Ancient Peaks does it again.”
-BevX.com

Vineyard & Soils

The 2010 Merlot comes primarily from Block 7 at Margarita Vineyard, with contributions from neighboring Block 4 and Block 5. These three blocks unfold along the slopes of an uplifted ancient sea bed, where the well-drained, calcium-rich soils are distinguished by decomposing oyster fossils. Such soils yield small, intensely flavored grapes with fine texture and firm natural acidity.

Winemaking

The 2010 Merlot fermented in stainless steel tanks with a blend of wild and commercial yeasts. The wild yeasts brought complexity and mid-palate richness to the wine, while the commercial yeasts fostered the vivid natural fruit quality. After fermentation, the lots were aged for 15 months in a combination of French (60%) and American oak (40%) barrels.

Tasting Notes

The 2010 Merlot opens with rich red fruit aromas with accents of tobacco, black olive and spicy oak. Smooth, polished flavors of plum, cassis and black cherry unfold with notes of cedar and cinnamon. Supple tannins embrace an elegantly balanced finish.

Cuisine Pairing

The complex flavors and velvety texture of the 2010 Merlot are a fine match for braised lamb shanks, rosemary pork tenderloin, grilled duck breast and beef medallions in red wine sauce.

Specs

Purchase Merlot

Trade & Media