Gold Medal - 2014 California Zinfandel Championship
Discussions about the top wines of California are usually centered around Napa Valley, with perhaps some time spent on Sonoma or Santa Barbara. However, grapes are grown all over the state, and sometimes lesser known regions can really shine. One of the most obscure vineyard areas must the Hyampon Valley, in Trinity County (Population: 13,448) a good two to three hours north of Sonoma and Napa. Here the R Merlo Estate vineyard sits on 45 acres nestled between majestic redwood-covered coastal mountains that reach as high as 8,000 feet above sea level. With a climate and growing season completely different from that found in the rest of California, this is truly a unique wine, and a must try.
The 2011 R Merlo Zinfandel is deep ruby/garnet in color, with a brooding nose of dark berries, plum, baking spice, and candied fig. The palate is brighter, with cherry, berry, and strawberry held together with a core of bright acidity. Medium bodied and with persistent fresh berry flavors on the finish, this could pair effortlessly with a wide range of foods, almost like a heavier pinot noir. A lovely zin, at a price that makes it a perfect daily drinker.
Aging: American Oak for 12 months
Acid/pH: .59 / 3.6
Alcohol Content: 14.5%
Release: March 2012
Production: 750 Cases
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
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