WINEMAKER NOTESUpon hand harvesting in the early morning hours, our grapes were carefully destemmed and sent to tank for a whole-berry fermentation. The grapes were cold soaked in tank at 45°F for 4-7 days, allowing for increased color, aroma, and flavor extraction. After inoculation with a select yeast, the grape must (juice, skins, and seeds) fermented at 82°F, which allowed for a hot extraction on the skins. For fermentation cap management, the juice was pumped over the skins two times per day, wetting the cap evenly for a nice healthy fermentation. After fermentation and pressing, the wine was aged in 30% new French oak and 70% neutral oak for 20 months before bottling. The blend is 79% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Malbec, and 2% Petit Verdot. Whitehall Lane has always utilized the art of blending to make a Merlot with layers of flavors, complexity, and balance. These elements assist with the goal of varietal typicity in creating the perfect Merlot. This 2018 Napa Valley Merlot was bottled unfined and unfiltered.
THE VINTAGEThe 2018 vintage was a near-perfect growing season! Bud break began in late March to early April, leading to a Spring that was mild and dry. Flowering proved to be long and gave way to a healthy set of uniform grape clusters. Summer was also quite warm and long, leading to a cooling effect near the end of the season and into Fall. Throughout the vineyard growing season, there were no heat spikes and the temperatures were steady and even-keel. The consistent summer weather encouraged our Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot grapes to ripen in mid-September to late October when they were in perfect balance. The fruit is from our vineyards in St. Helena, Rutherford, and the Oak Knoll District appellations.
WINE FACTSWinemaker: Jason Moulton Appellation: Napa Valley Alcohol: 14.7% Blend: 79% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot
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