Sans

Wine Profile

Production Notes

Varietal Composition: 100% estate fruit – 87% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker Notes

This vintage of Stout Merlot is a vivid expression of estate-grown excellence, reaffirming why wines from this region are so highly sought after. The volcanic, iron-rich mountain soils and consistent sun exposure contribute to a vibrant bouquet of berries and florals, subtly enhanced by a hint of coffee. On the palate, it presents a tapestry of juicy pomegranate and sweet baking spices framed by fine-grained tannins that offer a lush, textured sensation. Notes of wet slate add a touch of elegance, leading to a lively and fresh finish.

Production

Winter and spring provided ample rain, which allowed the vines to set a generous crop with excellent canopies. Budbreak arrived a little over a week early, and we enjoyed warm, steady weather throughout spring and summer. We began picking Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and some Merlot as early as mid-August, but the first big push began after a Labor Day heat event, when our generous canopies paid dividends, helping shade the grapes. After a busy few weeks, a cool spell allowed the remaining grapes time to mature. To counter the impact of modest mid-September rains, we applied a careful fruit drop, and were equally diligent during sorting. Overall, harvest lasted eleven weeks, delivering wines with excellent concentration, supple tannins, lovely finesse and dynamic acidity.