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Behler Vineyard
91 pts., Gold Medal | San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge
91 pts. | Press Democrat North Coast Wine Challenge
Tasting Notes
This wine opens with enticing aromas of fudge, cherry cordial, and blackberry, layered with hints of vanilla paste and sarsaparilla. On the palate, rich dark flavors take center stage, complemented by warm baking spices and a luscious, full-bodied structure. Broad, coating tannins create a luxurious texture, leading to a bold and enduring finish that balances depth with complexity.
Vintage Notes
Our 2022 harvest began just a little earlier than the previous year, with the first fruit picked on August 15. Limited rainfall during the growing season produced slightly lighter crops, bringing intense, concentrated flavor and color. The consistent weather during the summer months helped maintain fruit acidity, bringing brightness and balance to the fruit’s flavors. Harvest continued through the middle of October when we picked the last red grapes from our Sonoma Valley estate, Wild Oak Vineyard.
Vineyard Notes
Our founder Joe Martin was the first grower to plant Merlot in Sonoma Valley when he came to this area in the 1970s. This picturesque valley is surrounded by the Sonoma Mountains to the west and the Mayacamas Mountains to the east, providing perfect conditions for Merlot grapes. The Behler Vineyard, our first Estate Vineyard, is located in the heart of Sonoma Valley, where warm summer days are cooled by evening breezes and fog from the Pacific Ocean, resulting in fruit with deep, complex flavors and aromas.
Winemaker Notes
All grapes are gently de-stemmed before cold-soaking for two days to extract optimal color and flavor. The fruit is fermented in separate lots, allowing each lot to be individually and distinctly crafted before being aged in 30% New French Oak. The wine is kept in barrel for 15 months before final blending.
