2012 Merlot Zayante

The wine has a dark ruby red core moving to pink and light garnet hues on the rim. The nose is classic and pure exhibiting traits of Right Bank Bordeaux where this varietal is most famously grown within France. The nose is beautifully balanced and earth driven with aromas of freshly picked red currants, red plums, dried leather, bay leaf, red tobacco leaf, cedar box, wet violets and dried clay with a touch of baking spices. The palate is medium plus in body with a kiss of perceived sweetness to the fruit. Flavors on the palate confirm the nose with just ripened fruit flavors of red and black plums, tart red cherries, leather, green tobacco and a touch new oak.