White Oak Merlot 2012
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Blend: 91% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon
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2000-
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Established in 1981, White Oak Winery, a small boutique winery, is dedicated to producing small quantities of distinguished lots. These are carefully crafted wines that reflect the uniqueness of the vineyards and climates of northern California's Sonoma and Napa counties.
Located in the heart of the Alexander Valley, they farm 750 acres of estate vineyards. Roughly 10% of this fruit is used in White Oak wines with the balance being sold to other well-known wineries. Their Russian River Valley vineyards produce Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, while the Napa Valley vineyards produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah.
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.