Elegant, Balanced, Lush & Smooth...
Schug Estate, one of the oldest estate programs in Carneros, is a pioneer in the region, and one of the few wineries in the area that still produces Bordeaux varietals in this cooler climate. While the result may not be the huge, jammy fruit-bombs that garner big scores from the critics, instead the focus is on elegance and balance, with the resulting wines pairing much more easily with food, and allowing the varietal character of the grapes to shine through. The 2006 Heritage Reserve Merlot is an example of just such a wine.
The nose shows black cherry, cocoa, and dried herb. The palate echoes the black cherry on the nose, joined by cassis, plum, and tealeaf. This medium bodied red is lush and smooth, yet remains bright thanks to good acidity. The finish is persistent, resonating on the palate with chocolate-covered cherry flavors. A small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, and Malbec are included in the final blend, adding an extra degree of complexity. The Bordeaux style red is perfect for red meat dishes prepared with a lighter touch that might be overpowered by a big, brash California Cab.
Blend:
91% Merlot (Sangiacomo, Ricci, and Rancho Salina Vineyards)
3% Cabernet Franc (Rancho Salina Vineyards)
5% Cabernet Sauvignon (Rancho Salina and Atwood Vineyards)
1% Malbec (Rancho Salina Vineyards)
Appellation: 86% Carneros; 14% Sonoma Valley
Harvest Dates: September 28th through October 25th, 2006
Sugar at Harvest: 24.4 degrees Brix average
Fermentation: 12- 14 days in stainless steel tanks, punched down three times daily
Aging Cooperage: 22% aged in new French oak barrels 6% aged in new American oak barrels 72% aged in 1 to 4 year old French and American oak barrels
Alcohol: 13.5% by volume
Acidity: TA = 0.59 g/100ml; pH = 3.49
Production: 447 cases (12 x 750ml); 8 cases (6 x 1.5L); 6 x 3L
Release Date: April 1, 2010
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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