2008 Merlot

Aromas of bing cherry and violets are followed by a full, velvety palate of opulent black cherry, black plum and berry flavors, with notes of mocha, fresh tobacco leaf and chai spices. Round tannins add weight and a lush texture and lead to a lingering, creamy finish. Delicious upon release, this Merlot will benefit from five years of cellaring from vintage and continue to age gracefully for at least ten years.

Rhinefarm Estate Vineyard Estate grown, produced and bottled Sustainably farmed Rhyolitic Ash and Alluvial Wash soils at 70 to 105 feet elevation Ten distinct blocks of Merlot harvested in 15 lots 7- to 30-year-old clone 6 and 181 vines Yield 3.5 tons/acre

Night harvested by hand in fifteen lots Each lot processed separately based on distinct profile Three- to five-day cold soak Yeast strain D254 Extraction through pump-overs, tailored to phenolic profile of each lot Pressed before dryness and racked to barrels to complete fermentation Lees stirring for three months post fermentation Base blend assembled twelve months before bottling Final blend assembled two weeks before bottling 17 months in 100% French oak, 40% new Medium tight grain, medium to medium- plus toast Primary cooper Nadalie

In 2008, there was more springtime frost than usual, but we were lucky enough to not be greatly affected—unlike some of our neighbors. We found ourselves enduring erratic temperatures in May, with heat spikes followed by cool weather and very little rain. June and July brought heat in combination with smoke strewn across Northern California. Luckily, our grapes were not affected by the smoke to our north. While the harvest was busy at first, mid-September brought cooler weather which slowed ripening, allowing us to catch our breath, and finish out the season calmly. The strong 2008 vintage resulted in concentrated wines, full of distinctive character.