Surprise 2009 Napa Merlot tasting after the Pahlmeyer tasting. Tasted with the 2009 Pahlmeyer and 2009 Shafer Merlots.

Deep and dark ruby red. Layered nose with a little bit of stinginess, cassis, black currants, and blackberries. Heavy tannins (7.5/10) and medium plus to full bodied. Solid acidity and notes of dark berries, spices, graphite and pencil shavings. Long finish.

This is made up of 100% Merlot from two block within the Hyde Vineyard in Carneros. If made in the same way as more current bottles it is whole berry fermented and aged for 22 months in 80% new French oak barrels. Assuming there are under 500 cases produced.

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