Monticello Vineyards
2005 Monticello Vineyards Estate Grown Merlot
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Print: Tasting Notes
Tasting Notes:
Our Vintage 2005 Estate Grown Merlot shows aromatics of classic red berry - cherry, strawberry, raspberry, hints floral notes and a touch of new French oak. The flavors follow with more red berry and are framed by gentle oak and moderate tannins. Medium-bodied in structure, the wine is very well balanced. It has a silky, but full texture and finishes long. This wine is drinking great now, and should be enjoyed now through 2012.
Vineyard Locations:
Home Ranch Vineyard – Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District
Our Merlot vineyards are planted to Clones #181 and #314 on #3309 and #420A rootstock. The grapes are lush and power packed with intense berry flavors and an abundance of bright fruit.
Home Ranch Vineyard and Knollwood Vineyard
Our Cabernet Franc vineyards are planted to Clone ‘X’, #312, #327 and #332 and bring red fruit and medium-bodied structure to the wine.
Vintage:
2005 was a fantastic year for our Merlot. The Merlot which makes up more than 80% of this blend was the last batch of grapes we picked at Monticello for the entire vintage. Due to the moderate weather late in the season, we were able to let the grapes just hang on the vines and continue to develop, without worrying about the sugars increasing. It’s a great situation that doesn’t happen every year. I think it allowed us to naturally achieve some great flavors in the vineyard.
Barrel Aging:
18 Months French Oak
Alcohol:
14.1%