2021 Florèz Wines Merlot 'Picard'

Santa Cruz Mountains, California

100% Merlot from the Hunter Hill Vineyard northeast of Soquel, planted on weathered sandstone and shale soils in a redwood grove 3 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Tended by James’s friend grower German Soto who is working organically, with no tilling, and dry farming. hand-picked mid-October and destemmed entirely. Fermented with native yeasts in a traditional upright French cuvee, pressed at dryness. Let to age for 10 months on light lees in neutral French oak. Unfined, unfiltered, and no added SO2 at any point. Aromas of black cherry, black plum and cacao powder complement a palate marked by lively acidity, medium firm tannins and a juicy dark fruit core. Not a California fruit bomb like many Merlots nowadays, this wine shows good restraint and is a proper red wine. Enjoy with food or on a chill day after work.  Balanced at 13.3% alcohol.