2020 Avant-Garde Merlot

The Carneros area is planted overwhelmingly with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, at 51% and 44% of the total acreage, respectively. And this is not without good reason as the climate is ideal for these two grape varieties. However, Carneros is a special, if not magical, place for Merlot. A place where the grapes can hang deep into October, developing additional layers of ripeness without losing freshness or acidity. Gentle de-stemming (without crushing) treatment coaxed out the expression of this unique site of beautiful red clay - specifically in terms of its silky tannins which create a truly seamless wine. In addition, we hand sorted all the fruit selecting the best clusters while leaving behind anything that was less than perfect. We only produce it when the vintage is just right to allow plenty of hang time and true varietal expression.