The fruit source for this Merlot is the Las Amigas Vineyard of Beckstoffer Vineyards. This is the second vintage working with this fruit, (we did not pick the 2020 crop due to smoke taint). We have elected to sign a long term contract for this fruit for the future to insure that we can produce a high quality Merlot every year moving forward.
Tasting Notes and Technical Information
This 2021 Salexis Merlot offers good acidity that accentuates the red fruit elements of cherry, raspberry and cranberry. The wine hints of cedar and spearmint aromas. A light toast of oak helps make this wine and tannins plump and smooth. As with all of John's Merlots, it is very enjoyable now but you'll want to buy extras to experience its development over the next 10 to 15 more years.
The Specs
Blend Composition
95.2% Merlot and 4.8% Cabernet Sauvignon
Harvest Dates
October 2, 2021
Harvest Analysis
25.9 Brix, 4.3 gms/l TA, 3.50 pH
Pre-Fermentation Maceration
5 days @ 50 degrees F
Pumpover Regime
2 times/day with Aeration
Maximum Fermentation Temperature
84 degrees F
Total Skin Contact Time
20 days
Barrel Aging
18 months in Chateau Style French oak, Medium Plus Toast, 66% new
