Merlo Family
2021 Zinfandel
, Estate Vineyard
North Coast

91 Points - Wine Enthusiast

Deep ruby in color, with aromas of raspberry, black cherry, blackberry, and ripe plum. Velvety and rich, the palate echoes its layers of fruit and combine with white pepper notes that lead to a smooth and gentle mouthfeel joined by notes of fig and baking spice that linger nicely.  This Zinfandel brings an amazingly long finish that is sure to please!

Its spicy undertones and superb freshness will allow it to age beautifully for many years to come. Enjoy with your favorite BBQ, grilled meats, rack of lamb and more.

Vintage
2021 was a wonderful growing season to experience. The growing season, a full three to four weeks later than that of Napa or Sonoma, allows for a much slower ripening, increasing hang time and creating full concentrated flavors without over – ripening or depleting natural acids. A warm Summer followed by a mild September temperature allowed the fruit to ripen evenly while keeping its fine acidity.

Winemaking
Fermentation was conducted in a single open-top fermenter using only native yeast and no adjuncts. Aged for 18 months in French and American oak the wine was then bottled with a lighter filtration pad.

Varietal: 100% Zinfandel
Winemaker: David Georges. Ray Merlo
Aging:  French/American Oak, 18 months
pH:  3.56
TA:  5.6 g/l
Alcohol Content:  14.5%

Tasting Notes  PDF

More About Merlo Family