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Dear Friends,
It's a beautiful time of year - harvest season has arrived in Napa Valley, and I've been spending a lot of time in the vineyards of potential 2013 vintage releases. I have to say, the future is looking quite delicious...
However, I'm here today to talk 2011. It's been a while since we've released Merlot, but the wait is over! Today's double release features two immaculately made wines sourced from two of Napa Valley's finest appellations - Oakville and Rutherford. Born out of the same partnership with the producer of our award-winning Lot 344, this is our latest collaboration with one of Napa Valley's premier grape growing families. We were very lucky to get our hands on some of their 2011 Oakville and Rutherford productions, and so are you! This pair of wines really showcases what all you Merlot lovers have been eagerly awaiting from Napa Valley.
Lot 397 2011 Oakville Merlot is sourced from the heart of Oakville, just off the main road. The grapes were grown in some of the best dirt around, and we were truly very fortunate to get our hands on this batch. Classically structured and displaying red inflected fruit, it opens up quickly, with savory aromas of raspberry fruit and dark plums. On the palate, the wine is super juicy, displaying super fine tannins and good sappy fruit. Lush, ripe, and feels texturally like pure Oakville - if you're familiar with the appellation, you'll know what I'm talking about the moment this wine passes your lips. Every bit as good as the 2010 vintage, though with a subtle difference - 2010 featured a little more black fruit, while Lot 397 shows a bit more red fruit and is slightly more savory. Good acidity, good tannins, and perfect to pair with food.
Lot 388 2011 Rutherford Merlot is the older brother of Lot 397 - earlier ripening, and grown a little higher up. The challenging 2011 vintage demanded extra attention and well-drained soils, and the grapes behind this wine definitely benefited from the special care. The wine opens up with aromas of pine needles, big oak, and savory red fruit. Piercing blueberry mineral notes dance on the palate. Truly a beautifully built wine with pitch-perfect balance and great structure. Totally approachable right now, and a tremendous value for Rutherford Merlot. Succulent, juicy, and ready to serve every day with your meal.
As a New Release special offer, go ahead and take 15% off (Wine Club members get 20% off) any 1 case purchase until Friday night at midnight as long as it includes one bottle of 397 or 388.
As always, if you have any questions or need assistance with your order, please don't hesitate to email us or call 800-805-1971. |
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