2011 Vista Montone Vineyard, Daybreak Block, Merlot
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Wine Specs
Vintage
2011
Varietal
Merlot
Appellation
Napa Valley
Harvest Date
October 20, 2011
Acid
6.1 g/L
pH
3.63
Aging
20 months, 100% French oak (60% new)
Alcohol %
14.8
Wine Profile
Vineyard Notes
Southern Napa, like its neighbor, Carneros, is open to the cooling influence of the San Pablo
Bay, so grapes grown here ripen slowly, developing concentrated flavors. Our Vista Montone
vineyard is home to a special block that faces the rising sun, aptly named Daybreak. The
vineyard’s cool microclimate and chalky soil is ideal for producing deep, complex Merlot.
Production Notes
The 2011 growing season began with a wet cool spring. Rainfall lasted into the middle of June
affecting bloom and diminishing yields in many vineyards. The cool weather trend continued
all summer delaying ripening throughout Napa Valley. Since we are estate, we diligently
monitor all our vineyards, adjusting our viticultural practices frequently. It was necessary to
significantly open up the vine canopies to ensure adequate sun exposure, air circulation
and ripening. Overall flavors in the grapes were achieved at lower sugar levels making lower
alcohol wines that exhibit finesse and balance.
Winemaker Notes
“This is our most southern vineyard in Napa Valley and is not very vigorous due to the cool
microclimate. Bud break happens early, but then we don’t end up picking until mid-October.
However, despite this cool microclimate, this is not a timid wine. I often refer to it as the
‘Merlot for Cabernet drinkers’ because of its structure and new-world style. It has layered
aromas of cassis, dried bing cherries, dried plums, vanilla and baking spices, leading into
luscious and concentrated red and black fruit flavors with subtle hints of brown sugar, smoke
and sarsaparilla.” - Mario Monticelli
Product Reviews
Linda
(May 1, 2016 at 6:33 PM)
My new love! Paired beautifully with the NY steaks we grilled.