Raymond Merlo Family Vineyards
2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Oak Knoll District

Considered nearly perfect vintage for Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Wine Spectator rated the vintage 99 on its 100-point scale.

The Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley is probably one of the lesser-known sub-AVAs within the Napa Valley proper, sitting at the southern end of the valley.  This southern location puts it closer to the San Pablo Bay, moderating temperatures and resulting in wines that may be a bit lighter than those from vineyards further north.  The result is wines that are beautifully balanced, with great potential for aging, and that pair wonderfully with food.  Today's offering from R. Merlo Vineyards provides a wonderful example of Cabernet Sauvignon grown in the Oak Knoll District.

The 2007 Raymond Merlo Oak Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon is deep ruby in color.  The nose shows typical Cabernet aromas of black cherry, leather, and pencil lead, with an intriguing blueberry note.  The palate starts with more cherry, joined by spicy, tobacco notes and cassis.  Medium bodied and vibrant, this wonderfully fresh (especially for 7 years of age!), this classic Cabernet looks to have a long life ahead of it.  And now for the best part: we are offering it at an astounding 50% discount.  Wine with this pedigree and aging potential for under $30, and with a Napa designation to boot, simply doesn’t come along often, so don’t miss out on this one.

Grape Source:  Oak Knoll of Napa Valley
Aging:  24 months in French oak (40% new oak)
Acid/pH:  .60 / 3.53
Harvest Brix:  24.2
Residual Suga:  0.2%
Alcohol Content:  14.1%
Bottling Date:  November 2013
Production:  600 Cases

Tasting Notes  PDF

About The Winery...

Raymond Merlo Family Vineyards is located along the banks of the wild and scenic South Fork of the Trinity River and at the base of South Fork Mountain, the longest contiguous ridge in the continental United States. This wholly unique setting helps create wines that speak to the power and beauty that is Hyampom Valley. Influenced by the idyllic growing season and climate of this small pocket valley, the fruit produced in the Merlo Family Vineyards expresses a strong sense of place. Based on the concept that quality wine is grown in the vineyard, a minimalist approach is taken in the cellar, allowing the wines to clearly reflect the varietal character and distinct terroir of Hyampom Valley.

Merlo Estate Vineyards produces a rare collection of richly flavored and expressive wines. Unlike many California wines, these deep, complex wines are not high in alcohol, nor overripe in flavors. Rather, the wines are naturally big and bold, yet refined and beautiful.

Learn more at www.merlovineyards.com.

<< previous  |  next >>