Rodney Strong Merlot

Description

OUR STORY At Rodney Strong Vineyards we focus on modern artisan winemaking, exclusively from Sonoma County, California. Our family-owned winery is committed to quality wines and to protecting our resources for the future. We are certified sustainable, practice Fish Friendly Farming and we are Sonoma Countys first carbon neutral winery.HISTORY At Rodney Strong Vineyards weve been growing Merlot since the early 1970s, when Rod Strong first planted it in Geyserville, the heart of Alexander Valley. Today we continue to farm Merlot in three estate vineyards in Alexander Valley, which display the deep dark fruit flavors and mature tannins of this warmer American Viticultural Area.THE VINEYARDS The 2012 vintage started off warm and dry, with little to no frost. By midsummer people were beginning to whisper about how perfect the growing season was going. Rain-free warm days and cool nights were the rule, with no storms or heat spikes. The real cheering began when we finally started picking the fruit in September, earlier than the previous year. We harvested this Merlot September 14th through October 26th under ideal conditions.TASTING NOTES The 2012 Sonoma County Merlot is lush with predominate notes of black plum, black cherry and blueberry with a hint of dried sage. This wine is silky and voluptuous with soft tannins. The luscious dark fruit flavors are enhanced by aging in small French and American oak barrels for a nice baking spice, vanilla and creamy finish. Enjoy this Merlot over the next two to four years with Charcuterie, grilled chicken and vegetables, especially mushrooms, as well as braised short ribs.- Rodney Strong