2006 Darioush Signature Merlot * Napa Valley

$48.00

Quantity:

DARIOUSH DISTINCTION

Rocky, well-drained volcanic soil, a marine influence and the due east sun exposure describes the terroir of our unique Mt. Veeder estate. Vineyards planted on the steep hillside balance the ripeness and yield of one of the most vigorous of the Bordeaux varietals—providing the fruit and resulting wine, with great depth, texture and aromatic complexity.

TASTING NOTES

A combination of savory lavender, cinnamon stick and smoke aromas introduce this expressive mountain Merlot. Luscious flavors of blackberry, ripe cherry and cacao are supported by an earthy core on the mid-palate. The 2006 Signature Merlot is texturally complex – displaying refined tannins, great depth and concentration of fruit.

VINIFICATION

• Meticulous attention to detail in vineyard and minimal cellar handling
• The grapes were hand-harvested at night into 28 lb. baskets to insure cold, whole cluster fruit and preserve aromatic complexities
• Hand-sorted twice, both before de-stemming and after to achieve very clean, consistent fruit
• Fermented in a combination of opened top and closed top fermenters.
• Fermentation includes cold soaking for 4 days, with gentle pump-overs and extended maceration for optimal color extraction and tannin development.
• Aged 20 months in a combination of French oak barrels with barrel to barrel racking. The wine received minimal handling to the bottle.

“This is a stunning wine, filled with other-worldly spice, ripe fruit, and layer upon layer of complexity that leaps out from the glass over an evening of conversation--- food is optional!”