2001 ALEXANDER VALLEY
MERLOT
Four generations of the Young family have farmed the same estate in
California's Alexander Valley since 1858. Today, the family known for its rich
agricultural heritage and innovative farming methods embraces a new chapter with
wines of distinctive Sonoma County character.
The 498 acres of valley floor and
hillside on the Young estate are planted to 317 acres of pristine vineyard.
Merlot vines are cultivated on the western and northern hillsides of the
property. On the rolling western hillsides the soil is predominantly Suther-Laughlin
loams, while the northern slopes are home to Supan and the volcanic
Spreckels loam. Soil diversity on the Young estate provides Winemaker Kevin
Warren with maximum flexibility in blending.The 2001 growing season
featured a short summer with very warm temperatures punctuated by heat
spikes. Mild temperatures in September encouraged merlot grapes rich in
color and aromas, while a heat wave in the last week of the month brought
the fruit to full ripeness.
Warren describes the 2001 Robert Young Estate Winery Merlot as a rich,
intensely flavorful and fruity wine with aromas and flavors of black
cherries, spice, fresh herbs, cola and vanilla. Well-integrated toasty oak
highlights the fruit and adds complexity to this merlot with a long,
lingering finish.
This wine has not been sent out for review.
Robert Young Estate Winery phone: 707 431-4811 fax: 707 431-4812 email:
info@ryew.com |
