Notes From The Winemaker:
VINEYARD…
Our 2007 Merlot is a blend of 91% Merlot 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Cabernet Franc.We source our Merlot from three vineyards(70% Beckstoffer’s Orchard Ave., Chris Johnson’s vineyard in Calistoga and Ink Grade on Howell Mountain). The Cabernet Sauvignon comes from 2 vineyards (Beckstoffer’s Dr Crane and Kenefick Ranch in Calistoga.) The Cabernet Franc is also from Kenefick Ranch
HARVEST…
The grapes were harvested from these esteemed properties in perfect physiological condition between August 31st and September 24th at an average of 26.6 brix, Titratable acidity of .52 g/100ml and a pH of 3.76.
FERMENTATION…
Ensued after a 24 hour cold soak at 55 degrees. The fermentation lasted for 15 days and reached a maximum temprature of 90 degrees.
AGING…
Took place in 70% new oak cooperage (70% French, 30% American). Malolactic fermentation took place in barrel. The wine was racked 3 times and was in barrel for 18 months.
BOTTLING…
Took place April 14th, 2009
OUR THOUGHTS…
The 2007 Napa Valley Merlot is a wonderful snapshot of a legendary vintage. Classic aromas of ripe plums, black cherry, ripe currants and chocolate jump form the glass. Rich, vibrant flavors of blackberry, soy, dark chocolate and vanilla coat the palate. The wine is a true pleasure to drink now but will reward cellaring of five to six years if you can keep your hands off it!!!!!!!!!!!
Ratings & Reviews
92 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate ('07 vintage):"The 2007 Merlot (91% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc) boasts a dense purple color as well as a gorgeously sweet perfume of white chocolate, coffee beans, plums, black currants, and a hint of mocha. Full-bodied and dense with layers of fruit and glycerin as well as a sumptuous texture, this terrific wine can be drunk over the next 10-15+ years.
Winemaker Tony Biagia continues to fashion prodigious wines for both the Getty family and its partner, San Francisco’s mayor, Gavin Newsom. The 2007s are the most impressive group of wines Plumpjack has released to date." - Robert Parker (12/2009)
San Francisco Chronicle's Top 100 Wines of 2009 ('07 vintage): "Anthony Biagi has coaxed a classic Merlot from a handful of vineyard sites. Cocoa and bright, powerful plum flavors have a lively edge and dusty, broad tannins. A Merlot with guts, but integrally so. It's young and tough, so give it some air." (12/09)
91 Points - Wine Spectator Magazine ('06 vintage):"Rich and opulent, offering lush black cherry and toasty mocha aromas, with complex, layered red currant, spice and minty espresso flavors that finish with burly but ripe tannins. Drink now through 2014. 2,383 cases made." –TF (4/30/2009)
