2006 Merlot, Napa Valley
Blend
83% Merlot
10% Cabernet Sauvignon
7% Syrah
Production
12,100 cases
The Vintage
A very wet and cool spring was followed by a mild summer and temperate fall in 2006. With all of the moisture in the soil after the winter and spring rains, the grape clusters and leaf canopy grew beautifully through the summer. Leafing and thinning was the routine in the vineyards in 2006 to keep the ripening process on track.
Winemaking
The winery has produced a premium Merlot every year since 1982. Working with the Merlot grape and Merlot vineyards throughout Napa Valley allows Whitehall Lane to consistently produce Merlot that is beautifully balanced with wonderful fruit and silky soft tannins.
The 2006 grapes came from five separate Merlot vineyards, two Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards and one Syrah vineyard. This blend results in a cornucopia of flavor nuances. The wine was gently pressed and aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for approximately 17 months. The Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure and intense fruit aromas and flavors. Syrah also enhances the aromas while also giving the wine added complexity.
Tasting Notes
The aromas are somewhat exotic, melding spicy aromas with dark cherry and blackberry notes and hi-lighted by hints of violet and lavender. The flavors are similar to the aromas with sandalwood and vanilla just beginning to give ground to the greater fruit below. It finishes long and silky, revealing its cherry core in the delicious finish. The wine is ready to enjoy now and will evolve with cellaring to 2012.
