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	BLEND & GRAPE SOURCES: 100% Napa Valley Merlot from estate vineyards (73%) and independent growers (27%) RELEASE DATE: January 2005 HARVEST DATES: Sept. 26 – Oct. 16, 2002 WINEMAKING DATA: Grapes were harvested at an average 25.5° Brix, fermented in stainless steel tanks, then aged 18 months in a combination of new French oak barrels (30%) and older French oak (70%), before being bottled in August 2003. The blending of different Napa Valley vineyards has created a classic Merlot with fruit forward intensity. Complex notes of chocolate, graphite, coffee and cinnamon end in a rich, intense velvety finish. The 2002 vintage began much drier and cooler than 2001 and by the end of April we measured an average of 6 inches less rain than during the first quarter of the previous year. Consistent warmth throughout the summer, along with 20 days of morning fog for both July and August, resulted in vine development running at full efficiency — shoot and leaf growth was strong and vine canopies were entirely filled with leaves to capture the sun’s energy. In September the weather pattern changed dramatically. High temperatures and dry north winds caused vine physiology to respond with an increase in sugar and a drop in acidity. Fortunately, the summer months had promoted remarkably strong color and flavor development, enabling healthy vineyards to withstand the September heat wave and ripen to full maturity.
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