Alexander Valley Vineyards Estate Merlot 2006

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"Merlot has gotten a bad rap in recent years as a wimpy wine, but we're convinced we will change a lot of minds with our 2006 Estate Merlot. It's dense and rich, qualities a lot of folks associate with Cabernet Sauvignon. Winemaker Kevin Hall calls this a Merlot that think's it's a Cab. The 2006 growing season started out cool and wet and there was about a week of blistering temperatures in the summer. Yet more temperate conditions returned just in time for harvest, allowing the fruit to ripen evenly and develop some deep color.The long growing season delivered a beautiful Merlot showing aromas of black cherry. plum and pie spices like nutmet and clove. In the glass, the wine opens up to reveal flavors of plum, vanilla, cherry and a touch of cranberry."~Winery notes