Leal Vineyards 2004 Estate Merlot

Wine Recommendation:
Leal Vineyards 2004 Estate Merlot

Tasting Notes:
Leal is quickly building a reputation for stylish, limited edition reds – this classic Merlot release is a case in point… Not a wimpy Merlot - big fruit, rich mouthfeel, young tannins. Will improve in the glass with every sip. Perfect with beef, lamb, and brown and Au jus-sauced preparations. Also great with the cheese course.

Winemaker Notes:
Winemaker “Griff”: “The 2004 Merlot is well extracted with big fruit and consistent with what people have come to know of our style. It is soft, creamy, and elegant. The ‘04 harvest came early for us and allowed me to make a slightly more refined wine with good focus and a combination of strength and grace. It is a great match for a rib eye steak - a real Merlot for real Merlot drinkers. ”

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	San Benito County
Harvest Dates:	October 21, 2004
Cooperage:	65% Demptos, American 35% Mercier, Center-of-France
Barrel Aging:	12 months
Alcohol:	14.4%