Sawyer Cellars Merlot 2005
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Here's what they like share about their wines: Our wines reflect the unique characteristics of each vintage and of the Rutherford growing district. It begins in the vineyard---as we use only a small percentage of the grapes grown on our estate, the fruit that is perfect to the eye and loaded with flavor. We hire harvest crews chosen for their selective picking techniques, and then we hand sort to insure we are using nothing but the finest fruit. Using gentle, gravity-fed systems in the winery, a judicious use of oak barrel aging in the finest French oak, and daily attention to the wines during aging, we produce the finest wines possible in small, select quantities.
As Napa Valley’s third most planted grape, Napa Valley Merlot shows time and time again its potential to produce exceptional results. Napa’s vaunted combination of climate, soil and the human factor of winemaking expertise lead to big, ripe, cellar-worthy and world-class versions.
Whether made by itself in single varietal bottlings or as an important role in Bordeaux Blends, Merlot continues a prominent role in this famous region. While Cabernet typically takes the lead role, Merlot’s contribution—even at 10% to 20% or so—is significant indeed. Often described as “the flesh on Cabernet’s bones,” Merlot lends a soft, round and plush character that beautifully complements Cabernet’s linear, full-throttle structure. Its flavors of plums plus subtle herbs and mint also dovetail nicely with Cabernet’s blackberry and cassis.