Paumanok 2003 Merlot

Harvest Notes:
2003 got off to a late start due to a cool, prolonged spring. Cool weather persisted throughout the summer, as high temperatures rarely exceeded 90° F. However, late August and the month of September provided ample sunshine for the Merlot grapes to fully ripen. Average yields were 1.5 tons per acre due in part to a hail storm on June 30 and stringent fruit selection at harvest.

Winemaking Notes:
The grapes were sent through the crusher-destemmer with the rollers set wide apart to retain a larger number of whole berries. The grapes were fermented in stainless steel tanks after 3 days of cold soaking. Pump overs were done with splashing of the free run and then gently irrigating the cap. This method insures that only the softest tannins are extracted. After the fermentation was complete, the free run was drained into oak barrels. The must was pressed and, after clarification, was also moved to oak barrels. The malolactic fermentation was completed in the barrels. After 14 month in the barrels the Merlot was bottled.

Tasting Notes:
Plums and spice are supported by a robust and smooth tannin structure in this medium bodied Merlot.

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	North Fork of Long Island
Variety:	100% Merlot
Cooperage:	60% new and older French oak barrels, 40% older American oak barrels
Alcohol:	12.8%
pH:	3.73
Total acidity:	5.9 g/l
Harvest:	October 24, 2003
Brix at Harvest:	22.5
RS:	0.1%
Bottling Date:	March 15, 2005
Release Date:	January 10, 2007
Production:	557 cases