Dry Creek Vineyard – 2006 Merlot
January 16, 2010
The Facts:
The folks at Dry Creek Vineyard have been producing Merlot since the inception of the Winery in 1972. The Dry Creek Vineyard 2006 Merlot is produced using Dry Creek Valley fruit. In addition to Merlot (87%), Cabernet Franc (8%), and Malbec (5%) are also blended in. Barrel aging was accomplished over 19 months in a combination of French and American oak; 30% of the barrels were new. Just over 3,700 cases of this vintage were produced and the suggested retail price is $19.
Gabe’s Take:
In a lot of ways Merlot is one of the more controversial varietals of the last few years. After the movie Sideways painted it in such a negative light, Pinot Noir sales soared, Merlot sales headed the other way. There was something in the point that film made. There’s a lot of trite Merlot out there. But when Merlot is grown under ideal conditions and treated properly it can be every bit as exciting as Cabernet Sauvignon. So instead of writing this varietal off, wine lovers should simply seek out the good ones.
Right off the bat I’ll mention that this 2006 Merlot from Dry Creek Vineyard needs a solid bit of aeration. Decant it for 45 minutes and this wine really blossoms. Plum, fig, vanilla and cedar aromas are all part of the nose of this Merlot. Cherry, rhubarb and a copious array of spice notes lead the palate. Sour berry fruit, hints of thyme, earth in spades, espresso, dusty cocoa, and mineral notes are all part of a lengthy finish. This Merlot has yielding tannins and solid acidity.
What stands out most about this Merlot is the tremendous balance it maintains throughout and the fact that it’s wonderfully dry. For anyone who has been drinking run of the mill Merlot that tastes, to be kind, generic, I highly recommend you try this offering. THIS is what Merlot tastes like. With 3,700 cases out there you shouldn’t have any trouble finding it. For around $19, it won’t break the bank either.
Please vote for Drink Dry Creek!
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