Broadside Merlot 2019 Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles, California

Broadside produces wines focused on purity and true varietal expression. The winemaking favors a natural approach in that the wines are minimally handled to best express the grape, site, and vintage. Appellation: Paso Robles. Sub AVA: Santa Margarita Ranch. 2019 Varietal: 89% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon. Winemaker Notes: “2019 was a terribly small harvest. The massive bounty from the previous year took a toll on the vines and consequently less fruit was produced. Higher acids and bright flavors are the predominant characteristics of this vintage.” Maturation: 15 months in 14% new French barrels, balance in neutral Franch barrels. Tasting Notes: Color of a fresh, young Bordeaux. The nose is particularly complex with aromas of cocoa dust, cedar, tobacco, ripe boysenberry, and freshly cut herbs. Flavors are black cherry cola, rhubarb pie filling, with a little black pepper. The tannins are soft and supple as you’d expect with a cool-climate Merlot. Serious acidity keeps the flavors elevated for what seems like forever.