COMPLETE TASTING NOTES
At Chalk Hill, our small production Merlot comes from four south-west facing vineyards on steep slopes. Our Merlot's soft yet elegant structure is created in the vineyard through low yields, abundant sun exposure, canopy management and hang time. We wait for a softening of tanin which coincides with berry softerning before the grapes are picked. Five different clones of the Merlot grape contribute to the final blend. The 2006 Merlot was fermented in tank with two to three pump-overs per day and a focus on soft tannin extraction. The addition of 20% Malbec to the blend adds texture, complexity and dark fruit. The wine presents a balance and elegance between ripe Merlot fruit and site-specific earthiness. Aromas of summer brush, huckleberry, eucalyptus and a slight smokiness are matched on the palate with violets, blueberry fruit, milk chocolate and moist earth.
REVIEW
Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate Awards 2006 Chalk Hill Estate Merlot 89 Points
Complete Review
Wine Enthusiast awards the 2006 Chalk Hill Estate Merlot 92 Points
Complete Review
SUGGESTED PAIRINGS
The Merlot can be enjoyed alongside many dishes including roasted duck, lamb and Pan Seared Pork Tenderloin with swiss chard, quince chutney and agro dolce.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
- Blend:
- 80% Merlot; 20% Malbec
- Vineyard:
- Chalk Hill Estate
- Appellation:
- Chalk Hill
- Ageing:
- 18 Months
- Fermentation:
- 100% Malolactic Fermentation in barrel with weekly batonnage
- Harvested:
- October 24-25, 2006 T.A. 1.9 Brix: 26.9
- Bottled:
- July 14, 2008 PH 3.90 T.A. 5.4 Alc. 15%
