Merlot 2016
Merlot is one of our most distinctive expressions, thanks to the nuances that we’ve discovered in our vineyards. For our 2016 Merlot, the lots were fermented separately and underwent full malolactic fermentation before being combined to create the final blend. Additional complexity comes from the small additions of Petite Sirah and Malbec. The wine was aged for twelve months using a combination of French and American oak of which 45% was new.
The resulting wine has aromas of black currant, black cherries and a touch of wood smoke with flavors of plums, dark berries, toasty oak and vanilla spice. In the mouth, this wine has an elegant and restrained style with nice structure and balance, soft tannins and a long finish.
Appellation: California Alcohol: 13.6% Download Tasting Notes
From one of the oldest and most consistent organically and sustainably farmed vineyards, Bonterra makes a delicious, fruit-forward merlot reminiscent of a cherry orchard. Blended with a bit of petite sirah and malbec, it has good dimension and richness with hints of vanilla and spice.
Tom Marquardt and Patrick Darr, Author of Capital Gazette
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Testimonial
From one of the oldest and most consistent organically and sustainably farmed vineyards, Bonterra makes a delicious, fruit-forward merlot reminiscent of a cherry orchard. Blended with a bit of petite sirah and malbec, it has good dimension and richness with hints of vanilla and spice.
Tom Marquardt and Patrick Darr, Author of Capital Gazette
Awards
Wine Enthusiast, February 2015 Issue
“On the big and bold side, this has abundant fruit flavors surrounded by equally abundant lip-smacking tannins, great acidity and a long finish.”
Wine Spectator, June 2018 Issue
“This elegant medium-bodied wine has everything in place, from fresh plummy aromas to warm layered flavors to an appetizing and moderately tannic texture. It has excellent balance, with a sense of freshness and depth that is compelling.”
Jim Gordon – Wine Enthusiast
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Awards
90 PTS, 2012 Vintage
Wine Enthusiast, February 2015 Issue
“On the big and bold side, this has abundant fruit flavors surrounded by equally abundant lip-smacking tannins, great acidity and a long finish.”
91 PTS, 2015 Vintage Editors’ ChoiceWine Spectator, June 2018 Issue
“This elegant medium-bodied wine has everything in place, from fresh plummy aromas to warm layered flavors to an appetizing and moderately tannic texture. It has excellent balance, with a sense of freshness and depth that is compelling.”
Jim Gordon – Wine Enthusiast
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