2002 Sonoma County Merlot

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WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Simi Merlot expresses the perfect combination of our vine-specific vineyard care and the detailed attention we lavish on each wine in the winery to ensure that every vintage results in wines that are always in perfect balance and unforgettably delicious.

THE WINE
Appearance:  Dark garnet
Aroma:  Bright cherry, plum and blackberry aromas, accented with baking spices, cocoa and roses.
Taste and Texture:  Upfront red berry fruit, medium bodied with elegance and balance.

VINEYARDS
Appellation:  Sonoma County

Simi Merlot is sourced from vineyards in Sonoma County, where the grapes receive ample sunlight. The warm daytime ambient temperatures followed by cool evenings and mornings create the perfect environment for developing ripe fruit characteristics and balanced tannins and acid.

WINEMAKING DETAILS
Varietal composition:  95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
Skin Contact:  15 days
Oak Aging:  11 months in French and American oak, 30% new
Total acidity:  6.2 g/l
pH:  3.56
Alcohol:  14.1%

Add our merlot to the menu when serving braised short ribs, grilled pork chops, soy-glazed quail or one of these featured recipes:

Herb Marinated Leg of Lamb and Pasta with Grilled Eggplant, Olives and Sun-dried Tomatoes

Grilled Chicken Breasts with Triple Onion and Red Wine Risotto