Wines Current Joseph Phelps Vintages Current Freestone Vintages Past Phelps Vintages Library Wines
	BLEND & GRAPE SOURCES: 100% Merlot from estate-owned vineyards (50%) and independent growers (50%). WINEMAKING DATA: Grapes were harvested between September 16th and October 20th at an average 25.4º Brix, fermented in stainless steel tanks, then aged 20 months in a combination of new French oak barrels (30%) and two- to four-year-old American oak (70%) before being blended and bottled in June, 2002. The long 2000 growing season was a roller coaster ride of temperature highs and lows, with many vintners picking from August to November, a time span causing both mental and physical fatigue on the part of vineyard and production crews. Nevertheless, overall fruit quality was high despite heat spikes in June and September, a mid-September cold snap, and rain in mid-October. A warming trend finally allowed the harvest to conclude at the end of October. Similar to the Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2000 Merlot is round, lush and approachable, with cherry-like aromas and complex fruit flavors of cherry and spice.
The Winery | Wines | Shopping | News and Events | Links | Phelps Preferred | Contact us | Home