Ancient Peaks Merlot 2021, Paso Robles, California

Merlot excels at Ancient Peak’s estate Margarita Vineyard and has been a mainstay in the small family of wines since day one. Here, ancient seabed soils combine with a long growing season to yield a Merlot with silky dark fruit flavors and a luscious texture, resulting in what has become one of the Paso Robles region’s most notable Merlots. Winemaking: After harvesting and destemming, each lot was cold soaked for 48 hours prior to fermentation for a gentle extraction of initial color and flavor. After fermentation and light pressing, the lots were aged for 17 months in a combination of French (50%) and American (50%) oak barrels, 25 percent of which featured new oak. We combine French and American oak barrels to cultivate complementary flavor profiles that enhance overall wine complexity. Tasting notes: The 2021 Merlot presents inviting aromas of dried cherry, currant, herb, clove spice and toasted oak. A plush mouthfeel unfolds with deep red fruit flavors accented by cassis, blackberry, tobacco, peppercorn, vanilla and dark chocolate. Supple tannins and energetic acidity add length to a smooth, rounded finish. 100% Merlot.