Merlot
California | Crafted from Certified Organically Grown Grapes
JEFF CICHOCKI, WINEMAKER
VINEYARD NOTES
This rich and flavorful Merlot blends vineyards in Mendocino County, including our organically farmed estate sites, with organic vineyards in the Central Coast and Lake County. The 2019 vintage was characterized by a cooler growing season, punctuated by the occasional rain shower, which allowed the grapes to mature slowly and develop greater depth of flavor.
WINEMAKING NOTES
Following harvest throughout October and into early November, the fruit for this Merlot was destemmed and pressed before a warm fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine underwent malolactic fermentation to soften the mouthfeel and rested 12 months before bottling, with a portion of that time spent aging on a mix of new and neutral French and American oak.
TASTING NOTESA
A dazzling deep mahogany red with a glint of purple, this Merlot’s lovely hue sets the stage for a generous palate of rich, ripe fruit. Aromas of blueberry and plum leap from the glass, layered over a subtle thread of graphite, pencil shaving and a suggestion of dried herbs. This medium-bodied wine has an elegant tannin structure and a long, velvety-smooth finish.
TOTAL ACIDITY: 0.58 GRAMS/100ML
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 0.36 GRAMS/100ML
pH: 3.71
ALCOHOL: 14.2%
Bonterra 2018 Merlot is listed as one of the 12 best California Red Wines of 2020 by Wine Enthusiast
December 2020
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Testimonial
Bonterra 2018 Merlot is listed as one of the 12 best California Red Wines of 2020 by Wine Enthusiast
December 2020
Awards
Planet Grape Wine Review, April 2021 Issue
“…organically grown Merlot with notes of blackberry, cassis, plum, mint and cedar.”
James Suckling, December 2020
Aromas of spiced plum, licorice, black olive, savory meat and earth. It’s medium-bodied with smooth tannins and fresh acidity. Juicy finish. From organically grown grapes. Try from 2021.
Wine Enthusiast, December 2020 Issue
The black-fruit flavors in this full-bodied and moderately tannic wine go deep and broad, filling the palate with rich blackberries and cherries. Hints of cocoa and dark chocolate add interest and complexity, too. —Jim Gordon
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Awards
90 Points, 2019 Vintage
Planet Grape Wine Review, April 2021 Issue
“…organically grown Merlot with notes of blackberry, cassis, plum, mint and cedar.”
91 Points, 2018 VintageJames Suckling, December 2020
Aromas of spiced plum, licorice, black olive, savory meat and earth. It’s medium-bodied with smooth tannins and fresh acidity. Juicy finish. From organically grown grapes. Try from 2021.91 Points, 2018 Vintage, #75 Top 100 Wines of 2020Wine Enthusiast, December 2020 Issue
The black-fruit flavors in this full-bodied and moderately tannic wine go deep and broad, filling the palate with rich blackberries and cherries. Hints of cocoa and dark chocolate add interest and complexity, too. —Jim Gordon
