Merlot is an important varietal at Stone Tower Winery. It is integral in the creation of our right bank Bordeaux style blend, Windswept Hill. This is the third single varietal merlot. In 2020 we created two different expressions of the wine, this one, and the Reserve Merlot. This wine is crafted from 100% merlot. The wine is rich, deep, and confident. It spent 20 months in French oak, 65% new. The fruit was lovely and ripe at harvest, and the sometimes-jammy character of merlot is replaced by lovely plum and blackberry on the palate. There is a sumptuous round and well-balanced texture from the first sip through the finish. Both of the 2020 Merlot expressions are exceptional and this one is a perfect example of what merlot should be when grown and crafted utilizing the best growing and winemaking practices in the world. The wine pairs well with a large number of dishes – grilled and roasted meats are the first things that come to mind; going heavier, rich pasta and wild game will be greatly complimented by the wine. You will also be surprised pairing that with a piece of grilled swordfish or halibut – perfect! The 2020 Merlot is truly “vin de garde” (wine for laying down). Drink a bottle now and get some for later. Watch as it ages and accentuates all the positive attributes. Drink through 2032.

100% Merlot. 20 months in 100% French Oak (65% new)