RATINGS

Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate (Dec. 2003) - 88 points
"The 2001 Merlot (100% Merlot) reveals the varietal’s classic chocolatey, mocha, and black cherry aromas as well as a medium-bodied style with dry tannin in the finish."

VINEYARD NOTES

Seavey's eighth estate-produced Merlot, the 2001, was made from 100% Merlot grapes grown at several different elevations of the vineyard. This year's growing season was a bit of a roller coaster with an early spring, a surprise frost and early heat spikes. But the weather evened out and August cooled to near perfect temperatures with cool nights. The grapes were harvested during the first three weeks of October at optimal ripenesss of sugar (24.5 degrees Brix) and tannins, and with concentrated fruit flavors.

PRODUCTION NOTES

Winemaking style followed classic Bordeaux methods. Following fermentation, the wine was aged in French oak barrels (45% new oak) for 18 months before bottling during June 2003.

100% ESTATE GROWN, PRODUCED & BOTTLED, NAPA VALLEY AVA