Twomey Merlot 2014

NOTES FROM THE VINEYARD
Record-breaking dry conditions continued in 2014. The only significant winter precipitation we received at Soda Canyon Ranch occurred in late February and early
March. Lack of rainfall coupled with a very mild spring led to an earlier than normal bud break and bloom for Napa Valley vineyards. Despite an early and warm start, the summer remained quite mild, with very few heat events and only three days of triple-digit highs. These conditions allowed fruit to mature and ripen slowly leading to wonderful concentration and depth of flavour. Harvest began on August 29 and the final grapes were picked on September 6. The 2014 vintage will be remembered for the warm and arid weather that provided conditions conducive to producing wines of exceptional quality.

VINEYARD
Soda Canyon Ranch Estate Vineyard
HARVEST DATES
August 29 – September 6, 2014
COMPOSITION 79.7% Merlot, 8.3% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7.9% Cabernet Franc, 4.1% Petit Verdot
ALCOHOL 14.4%
BARREL AGEING 13 months
BARRELS 30% new, 30% once used, & 20% older French oak; 20% stainless steel tanks
RELEASE DATE
April 28, 2018
TASTING NOTES
APPEARANCE
Slightly opaque scarlet red
AROMAS Black cherry, roasted meat, wet soil, raspberry jam, mocha, loose pipe tobacco, dried blueberry and brioche
PALATE Velvet entry, structured mid-palate, mouthwatering, bright cherry, blackberry, vanilla flavours and an enticing texture
FINISH Integrated tannins, elegant, juicy with a long finish and return
AGEABILITY  2032 given proper cellaring conditions
PAIRINGS A savoury beef short rib bourguignon or wild mushroom risotto