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2016 Marilyn Merlot 1.5 Liter
Winemaker Notes:
The 2016 Marilyn Merlot is a rich scarlet hue with purple tones that immediately catch one’s eye as it is poured in the glass. The aromas exhibit a complexity of characters, including but not limited to, cherries, cinnamon, plums, juniper berries and hints of mocha. This merlot has wonderful structure and weight on the palate, is well balanced with suitable tannins for aging. The flavors amplify the aromas with added nuances of tart, rich, blackberries, and vanilla. Very enjoyable now but will improve with 4-7 years of aging.
The Vineyards:
The backbone of this wine is from grapes from Andy Beckstoffer’s Missouri Hopper vineyard near Oakville with a supporting cast of vineyard sources in Napa Valley including merlot from St. Helena and Cabernet Sauvignon from St. Helena and Oak Knoll appellations.
The Vintage:
One of the better years in the last 10. No rain from late spring until well after we were finished picking, hence no need to pick early for fear of rain or to let hang for flavor as both sugar and maturity were reached easily. Moderate temperatures throughout with only a few heat spikes during the growing season.
Pairing:
Well made Merlots pair well with many foods, from steaks to pizza, most any meal is better with Merlot.
Photograph: This photo by Milton Greene of Marilyn Monroe was taken in September, 1953.
In this extraordinary up close photo of Marilyn in a large green sweater.