Ty Caton
2020 Merlot
, Upper Bench
Sonoma Valley

93 Points - Wine Enthusiast

This elegant Merlot greets the nose with rich aromas of chocolate, maraschino cherry and violets, followed by a lush mouth feel with layers of blackberry, currant, and a touch of caramel, cassis and white pepper.  Its decadent flavors combine with soft and supple tannins to create a long silky smooth finish.  Drink now through 2030.

Stylish, robust, elegant, and showy in its youth, and strengthened by layers of complexity, natural richness, and backbone that will allow the personality of the wine to expand further in the cellar.

Favorite pairings include rosemary and herb crusted lamb chops, beef skewers, and cherry glazed pork loin.

VINEYARD
Located in the foothills of Moon Mountain District, the Caton Vineyard is defined by its sustainable farming and belief that healthier vineyards produce unique and distinctive wines. 3.13 acres of Clone 3 Merlot is planted with East-West row direction leading into a ravine. The deep, rocky volcanic soil on the vineyard is rich with iron clay - an ideal atmosphere for producing the highest quality crop with slow even ripening.

VINTAGE
The 2020 harvest started with excellent growing conditions in Sonoma Valley. Temperature rose consistently through Labor Day while September brought high temperature spikes accelerating the last weeks of harvest. It took a unpredictable turn mid-August with wildfires.  Luckily, the early harvest allowed them time to pick the Caton Vineyard with smaller berries and more concentrated fruit.

Winemaker: Ty Caton
Appellation:  Moon Mountain District, Sonoma Valley
Vineyard:  Estate Grown, Caton Vineyard
Varietals: 100% Merlot
Farming Practices:  Certified Sustainable
Alcohol: 14.9%

Tasting Notes  PDF

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