Frogs Leap Merlot

The eastern side of the Rutherford appellation is lined with deep clay soils
that are a great place to grow merlot. The 2005 Frogs Leap Merlot is
predominantly grown in these soils in the shadow of the Red Barn, yielding
a wine of intensity and structure that needs no blending partner. With a
dark garnet color, this wines varietal character is revealed by its classic
aromas of cherry blueberry and sage. Across the palate the wines soft and
plush texture is full of fruit flavors ripe plums and red berries with
underlying notes of cigar box and green tea that leads to a supple mouthfeel
and persistent finish, all supported by polished tannins.

Region Description

The region of Rutherford is a large alluvial fan north of Oakville that spreads north and south in the middle of Napa Valley, CA. This sloping mass of sediments deposited by the river gave birth to some of the most famous and historic wineries in Napa. Composed of gravelly, sandy clay loam soil, in recent years you can't hear much about Rutherford without the fraise \"Rutherford Dust\", most likely do to the warm growing temperatures. Rutherford warm weather is well suited for the Cabernet Sauvignon which is the main wine of the region.