Peirano Estate Vineyards, “Six Clones” Merlot 2020 The Heritage Collection, Lodi, California

Produced from 6 different clones of Merlot grown on the estate, including two rare French clones, as well as a very rare Italian clone. Grapes are hand harvested from each section to ensure maximum maturity and flavor. The must was inoculated with Bordeaux red Pasteur yeast, fermented to dryness, pressed and settled before being moved into barrels. Aged for 12 months in all French oak barrels, less than 20% new. The wine was racked after completion of malolactic fermentation, and every three months following, while the barrels were topped up every two weeks to keep headspace at an absolute minimum. “Aromas of black cherries, red ripe raspberries, strawberry and spice (white pepper), join together in a single sensation of olfactory bliss. The mouth is filled with an array of flavors, including black cherry, strawberry and raspberry with lingering hints of cocoa and toasted oak. Moderate tannins and good acidity leave a pleasing, long lasting finish.” – From the Winery. Nestled between the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Lodi has an ideal Mediterranean climate with deep, rich, sandy-loam soils and abundant quality water.