Amour Merlot 2005

Rich, elegant, and beautifully fresh, this truly great Merlot has a long luxurious aftertaste; obviously the warm end of growing season was favorable..

Excellent with non-spiced meats such as pork chop, rack of lamb or filet mignon but also try it with anything chocolate.

This outstanding year produced another exceptional pure Merlot.

The dark ruby red color is beautifully intense.

The nose is fresh and redolent of ripe red fruit such as strawberry and raspberry. The bouquet also has spicy, as well as elegant toasted and vanilla aromas.

The wine starts out smooth, very elegant, and full-bodied on the palate. The elegant tannin and beautiful freshness continue into a long aftertaste with overtones of liquorice and a finish showing lovely red fruit nuances.

Winter rains gave way to a dry, mild March then began again with record-setting precipitation late into the growing season delaying bloom and set.

The summer months were cool and pleasant with few heat spikes. Fog and cool temperatures were a concern heading into September as sugar levels were yet to rise in all varieties.

Warm, nearly perfect conditions arrived with an Indian Summer making for a later than average harvest, providing fruit with extended hang and ultimately realizing excellent sugar development and balanced acids with a larger than average crop of what could be signature vintages from Sonoma and Napa Valley.

French Oak for 22 months, approximately 40% new, 40% one use and the balance neutral.

Cases produced = 700

Color	Red
Vintage	2005
Style	Red Bordeaux
Appellation	Dry Creek Valley
Varietal	Merlot
Date Bottled	2nd Jul 2007
Drinkable	2008 - 2012
Alcohol	14.10%
Bottle Size	750ml