2021 The Estates Merlot, Oak Knoll

THE VINEYARD: Fruit for this Merlot comes from the vineyard of one of our long-term growers. Located on the west side of the Oak Knoll District, this spot is slightly cooler than the rest of the sub-appellation, which is ideal for growing Merlot and enables us to pick the fruit when ripeness and freshness are in perfect harmony.

THE VINTAGE: The 2021 vintage was an excellent, mild growing season. After rains in January and February, the season remained dry. Temperatures were moderate and the weather optimal at budbreak and bloom. Weather remained even through summer and harvest, and while drought conditions resulted in a lower-than-average yield with small, deeply concentrated berries, the quality was excellent. The fruit was harvested by hand and fermented in our oak tanks, and then was pressed off and aged in French oak barrels (53% new).