Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Our 2003 Merlot begins with deep black fruit and cinnamon spice aromas. The mouthfeel is soft and round, with flavors of black cherry, plum, olive and mocha. Hints of clove accompany chewy tannins on a smooth, lingering finish.
Kevin Willenborg, Winemaker
Winemaking
The 2003 growing season was blessed with warm, steady temperatures throughout the summer and harvest seasons, ensuring balanced maturation of flavors and tannins. The Merlot grapes were harvested at the Firestone estate and select neighboring vineyards during the final two weeks of October, with individual blocks picked at peak maturity on different days. Extended maceration was employed for a total of 28 days of skin contact. The wine was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels. Small contributions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc were added to the final blend for enhanced structure.
Cuisine Pairing
The soft black fruit and spice flavors of our 2003 Merlot are an engaging match for a variety of medium-weight cuisine, including pasta Bolognese, roast beef, grilled wine-marinated flank steak and grilled swordfish. It also appeals to dark chocolate desserts and hard cheeses such as Parmesan and Romano.
Varietal Composition
Merlot 94%
Cabernet Sauvignon 4%
Cabernet Franc 2%
Duration of Aging
20 months in French oak barrels
Final Analysis
Alcohol 13.5%
TA .70
PH 3.40
Suggested Retail
$18.00/bottle
About Our Firestone Estate
The Firestone Vineyard estate is uniquely situated on a series of rocky mesas in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. Here, well-drained soils and an extended growing season contribute to the ripening of exquisitely balanced and flavorful grapes. The imprint of our estate is integral to the character and individuality of each Firestone Vineyard wine. |
