Cycles Gladiator Merlot (75cl, 14.5%)

A California Merlot blend produced by Hahn Family Wines, sourced primarily from the Livermore Valley. The blend is Merlot-dominant, typically around 80-86% Merlot, with small additions of varieties such as Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah depending on vintage. About 15% sees American and French oak barrels, while the rest rests in neutral barrels. Grapes come from vineyards certified under the Lodi Rules Sustainable program. The nose shows ripe dark plum and black cherry, bay leaf, dried eucalyptus, toasty caramel, cedar and crushed peppercorn. The palate is smooth and fruit-forward with cassis, sweet black cherry, dark chocolate, dried herbs and black tea, with midweight, well-integrated tannins. The finish is silky and dry, with plum skin, black licorice and a trace of graphite.