Growing Conditions
The 2019 vintage began with a cool start. We saw above average rainfall in Paso Robles helping to cleanse soils. The cool weather protracted bud break and bloom delaying our growing season. A heat wave in late July helped to accelerate our delayed season with harvest starting about 7 days late at the end of August. The weather became more seasonal until several frost events in late September and October created challenges for low elevation areas. Luckily, we saw very little frost damage in our vineyards this season. Overall yield in the vineyard is lower that average. While short and somewhat sporadic, vintage 2019 is showing to be rich in flavor and phenolically dense.
Winemaking
There are vineyard sites in Paso Robles that are very well suited to Merlot. Moderate temperatures, maritime influence and clay soils all help contribute to a robust Merlot. This wine is aged in French and Eastern European Oak for 18 months.
Food Pairing
Pair with burgers, steak, wild game and kabobs.
