2002 Laraine Merlot

Winemaker's Notes

After the internationally successful 2001 vintage in California, it took a lot of imagination on Mother Nature's part to come up with a season that could be better. But that is exactly what she did, if you listen to the critics at publications such as 'The Wine Spectator' and 'The Wine Enthusiast'. Although dramatically different in budbreak, flowering, verasion dates and picking times, 2002 may have produced superior vines in the long run. At Gerber Vineyards, it was special in other ways as well. It gave us a chance to start working with varietals such as Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, which were planted in 1999 and 2000, respectively. You may be asking, "What do Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon have to do with making Merlot?" In this particular case, a lot.

For centuries, Merlot grown in Bordeaux has been blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, and at times with Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot as well. Cabernet Sauvignon is used to add structure to the wine, while Cabernet Franc is used to enhance aromas. Petit Verdot added in very small percentages is used to enhance color. With the 2002 Laraine Merlot, we blended 17% Cabernet Sauvignon for strength and 1% Syrah for color to create what we believe to be our best Merlot to date!

The 2002 Laraine Merlot is full of ripe berry aromas and flavors with shades of cedar, sage and mint. Youthful and lively, this wine will be a perfect accompaniment to the upcoming barbecue season.