Josh Cellars Merlot

STYLE
Aromas of black cherries, fresh plums, violet and dark chocolate overwhelm
the bouquet. On the palate, the wine is layered with fresh bing cherries,
baked plums, and mocha, softened by its delicate, almost luxurious texture,
and given staying power with a long, raspberry and cocoa powder finish.
CUVEE
85% Merlot
15% Cabernet Sauvignon
WINEMAKING
True to the Josh Cellars style, the 2011 Merlot saw a classic winemaking
approach with a 24-hour cold soak, daily remontage to achieve flavor and
tannin extraction, followed by a one week extended maceration. The wine saw
a balanced oak regimen to maintain its approachable style, seeing French oak
for up to 12 months.
SOURCING
Winemaker Wayne Donaldson and vintner Joseph Carr sought premium lots
of Merlot fruit from across California that would deliver that signature Josh
Cellars wine style: bold, rich, approachable. The Merlot for this 2011 wine was
sourced from partner growers across, Napa, Monterey, Lodi, and Mendocino
County, each source bringing unique complexities and expertly blended to
ensure balance in the wine and a bold, rich flavor.
TECHNICAL DATA
Treatment: French Oak
Alc/Vol: 13.9%
TA: 5.5 g/L
pH: 3.50
AVA: California

Region Description

(mer loh) Deep in color, high in alcohol and low in tannins, this grape is grown mostly in California, France, Washington, New York and Chile. The aromas and flavors can be plummy, chocolaty, and even redolent of tea leaves. It is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon although it is the most prevalent grape variety in Bordeaux.