2017 Trentadue La Storia Merlot Alexander Valley

99% Merlot 1% Zinfandel

We harvested the 2017 Merlot Block 500 grapes on October 12th. The average sugar at harvest was 25.5 Brix- ideal for making high quality, age worthy wines. Post fermentation the wine was aged on the grape skins for total of 21 days. Post pressing the wine was racked twice and pumped into 28% new, mostly French and other European oak barrels, the rest went into older , mixed barrels. Majority of the wine for the final La Storia blend came from Block 500 with few barrels added from block 510.Our 2017 La Storia Merlot is a fine example of the ability of this classic Bordeaux variety to make solid, tasty and age worthy wines. The main aromas and flavors are of dark cherry, plums, a bit of black licorice and herbs. The new oak barrels contribute a touch of vanilla, brown sugar, cocoa dust and toast. On the mouth the wine is soft and viscous, balancing the acidity and the tannins well for such a young wine. The finish is long and soft with suggestion of sweetness backed by ripe tannins. This wine will age well and will reward your patience if stored well in the next 3-6 years. Cheers!

-trentadue.com