St. Supéry
Rutherford Estate Merlot 2018
Rutherford
The Rutherford Estate Merlot shows the typical fine-grained quality that the AVA is known for. Inspired by St Supéry’s initial consulting winemaker, Michel Rolland, a notable amount of the merlot is barrel fermented for a decadent and refined palate.
Vineyard
The Rutherford Estate vineyard surrounds the St Supéry winery on the eastern side of Highway 29, covering just over 50 acres. Located in the heart of Rutherford, the famed “dusty” style of the region permeates the wines with a distinctive character.
Winemaking
Warm fermentation and gentle cap maceration before an extended maceration period. 65% of the blend was barrel fermented. Aged in 44% new French oak for 19 months with regular movement of the barrels.
Vintage
A rainy winter and spring provided plenty of water for vines to drink from. Though July was warm, August through September proved to be mild and ideal to finish the season.
Tasting Note
Aromas of black plum and black cherry combine with graphite, milk chocolate, and black pepper.
Color
Red
Grape Varieties
Merlot
Appellation
Rutherford
Farming
Napa Green Land and Winery
Alcohol
14.5%
Suggested Retail Price
$82
