2005 MERLOT
Napa Valley
THE BLEND 100% Merlot
PRODUCTION 10,300 cases
RELEASE DATE October 2007
STATS
Harvest ~ September 22 - October 7. 24.2° brix at harvest. 13.5% alcohol. 6.3 gr/1 total acidity. 3.61 pH. Aged 18 months in French and American oak
A BRIEF HISTORY
A part of our family since 1990, Merlot holds
a special place in the heart of Frog’s Leap as the majority
of the fruit comes from the Estate surrounding our winery and
historic Red Barn. Situated in the eastern part of Rutherford
this vineyard is perfectly suited for growing Merlot due to
its rich, clay loam soils. We have found over the years that
Merlot likes “cool feet” and a “warm body.”
The clay soils hold more moisture keeping the root-zone cool,
while the setting sun over the Mayacamas gives our vines an
extra hour of evening sun. Sustainable and dry farming practices
reveal the true personality of the varietal, which we describe
as having red fruit flavors with a soft, supple texture. We
believe that our Merlot is another great ambassador of the Frog’s
Leap style - elegant, balanced and restrained.
ABOUT THE WINE
The eastern side of the Rutherford appellation
is lined with deep clay soils that are a great place to
grow merlot. The 2005 Frog’s Leap Merlot is predominantly
grown in these soils in the shadow of the Red Barn, yielding
a wine of intensity and structure that needs no blending partner.
With a dark garnet color, this wine’s varietal character is revealed by its classic aromas of cherry blueberry and sage. Across the palate the wine’s soft and plush texture is full of fruit flavors — ripe plums and red berries with underlying notes of cigar box and green tea that leads to a supple mouthfeel and persistent finish, all supported by polished tannins.
WINEMAKERS
John Williams and Paula Moschetti |
