VARIETAL 100% Merlot
APPELLATION  Alexander Valley Estate
AGING 15 months in 42% new French oak
ALCOHOL 14.5%
RESIDUAL SUGAR .3%
pH 3.61
TOTAL ACID .61g/100ml

Winemaker Notes:
We harvested in October. The fermentation was completed in two separate tanks with two different yeast clones. Post fermentation the wine was aged on the grape skins for a total of 21 days. Post pressing the wine was racked and pumped into 42% new, mostly French and other Europen oak barrels, the balance went into older, mixed barrels. Most of the wine for the final La Storia Blend came from Block 500.

Tasting Notes
Our La Storia Merlot is a fine example of the ability of this classic Bordeaux variety to make solid, tasty and age-worthy wines. The main aromas and flavors are of dark cherries, plums, a bit of black licorice and herbs. The new oak contributes a touch of vanilla, brown sugar, cocoa dust and slight toast. On the mouth, the wine is almost heavy but the acidity and tannins are balanced for such a young wine.