Dry Creek Vineyard Merlot (75cl, 14.2%)

A Bordeaux-style red wine from Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California, bottled at 14.2% ABV in a 750ml bottle. The winery first released a Merlot in 1974 and has produced the varietal continuously since. It is predominantly Merlot blended with small percentages of Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The DCV6 vineyard was replanted to support Bordeaux varietals and Meritage-style blends, while the historic Bullock House vineyard contributed to earlier Reserve Merlot bottlings. The nose opens with earthy and herbal tones of clove, cedar and coffee bean, with ripe blackberry and black currant fruit beneath. The palate is soft and inviting, with red and dark fruit, cherry and mocha, vanilla undertones and tannin from the blending partners. The finish carries moderate length with lingering cedar and dark berry notes, plus coffee bean and subtle herbal tones.