2015 - Stags Leap District Merlot

Located in the heart of Stags Leap District, the Silverado vineyard, first established in 1884, is one of the pioneering vineyards that established the reputation of one of the world’s greatest appellations. The finesse and balance of this Merlot is a perfect reflection of its Stags Leap heritage.

$60
Stags Leap District Merlot
Vintage Notes The 2015 growing season in Napa Valley started out with unseasonably warm temperatures in the late winter and early spring. This resulted in an early bud break and bloom. Colder temperatures in May (during the peak of bloom) caused uneven fruit set which ultimately resulted in a much smaller crop in 2015, compared to both average yields and the three abundant years that preceded it. As a result, winemakers worked together with vineyard crews and employed new technologies, like optical sorting, to ensure they picked and crushed only the best quality grapes. The harvest was one of the earliest on record in Napa Valley, beginning on July 22 with the picking of grapes for sparkling wine, and concluding for most all vintners and growers in the valley by mid-October. While ongoing drought was of great concern to farmers around California, Napa Valley received 75% of normal rainfall for the year, bringing far fewer water concerns for Napa Valley’s vintners. Tasting Notes Aromas of sweet vanilla bean, freshly picked herbs, raspberry, and cherry. Medium-body with bright cherry flavors that persist through the long finish. Good by itself, but exceptionally tasty with salmon or a simply prepared pork roast.
  • Varietal 100% Merlot
  • Appellation Stags Leap District
  • Vineyard 100% Silverado Vineyard
  • Harvest Info September 1, 2015
  • Skin Contact 11 days of skin contact
  • Oak Profile 17 months barrel age
    52% new oak
    New oak profile: 100% French
    Overall oak profile: 100% French
  • Analysis 13.6% Alcohol
    6.12 g/L TA
    3.38 pH
    0.06% Rs
    Bottled June 2017
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