Renaissance 1999 Merlot

Winemaker Tasting Notes:
Dark saturated purple-red. Big, ripe, inviting nose of plum, cherries, with a herbal/spicy side (rosemary and thyme), and a meaty (fresh lamb/musk) character. Medium-full bodied, with deep concentrated fruit, earthy/spicy complexity, and a lusty, alcoholic, expansive finish. Good length. This is one of the biggest wines of the great 1999 – a vintage noted for rich elegant fruit and smooth textures. While drinking well now with the appropriate roast meats or stewed dishes, it will greatly reward further aging. Drink now to 2015.

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	North Yuba, Sierra Foothills
Varietal Blend:	89%Merlot, 6%Cabernet Franc, 5%Cabernet Sauvignon
Harvest Dates:	September 25- October 13, 1999
Average Brix:	24.2 d
Fermentation:	14 days. Hot fermentation in stainless steel tanks, aeration and sprinkle-over cap.
Aging:	11 months in Neutral oak barrels
Alcohol:	12.7%
pH:	3.5