RATINGS

Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate (Dec. 2003) - 90 points
"The 2002 Merlot is a 550-case offering exhibiting aromas of melted fudge, coffee, berries, and dried herbs. Made in a rich, medium to full-bodied style with loads of character and flesh, it will provide immense pleasure over the next decade."

Orange County Fair, Ca (2005) - Gold Medal Award.

VINEYARD NOTES

Seavey's ninth estate-produced Merlot, the 2002, was made from Merlot grapes grown at several different elevations of the vineyard. The growing conditions of 2002 exceeded expectations. Good quantities of rain occurred during the preceding winter, and a long Spring and even-tempered summer allowed the grapes to develop slowly and take all the nourishment that the soil and sun had to offer. The grapes were harvested in late September.

PRODUCTION NOTES

Winemaking style followed classic Bordeaux methods. The grapes were sorted, destemmed and gently lifted into small tanks for fermentation. Following fermentation, the wine was aged in French oak barrels for 18 months before bottling in June 2004.

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