2007 NAPA VALLEY MERLOT NOTES
The quality of Merlot from the 2007 vintage was a big reason why I was so excited to make this our first Napa Valley Merlot release. Mother Nature did so much of the work. It was a long, cool growing season, giving us long hangtime to develop wonderful varietal flavors. The heat spike in August of 2007 put a lot of stress on lighter skinned grapes, but Merlot hung tough and benefited from a cool September. It wasn't until mid-October that merlot was harvested, and the fruit from our vineyard sources in Napa Valley was exceptional.
Sourced 100% from Napa Valley, the majority of our Napa Valley fruit came from Oak Knoll District. This small AVA south of Yountville and north of the City of Napa, is, in my opinion, one of the greatest regions in the world to grow merlot. The area benefits from both the cool maritime influence of the bay and the warm soils of the valley. The result is fruit that is both bright and elegant. It didn't hurt that my brother grew the grapes.
The 2007 Cannonball Napa Valley Merlot is a special wine. The color is deep garnet with a bright halo of ruby. The aromas reveal slowly and I find layers of cherries, floral, and vanilla-creme with a hint of red spice and walnut. In the mouth, the wine announces itself with an enthusiastic entry of cherry, pomegranate, dark berries, and toasty flavors. The body is full and rich, threaded with fine textured tannins. Overall, I am excited by the outstanding length and bright finish.
www.drinkcannonball.com