Benziger 2014 Merlot, Sonoma County

The Benziger Family is well known for producing some of the best value, quality wines in Sonoma County. And over the last decade or so their focus has been on improving the quality of their wines through improved farming techniques. More specifically, through sustainable, organic and biodynamic grape growing. All of their estate vineyards are there right now but they are also working very closely with their grape growing partners to implement full sustainability in their vineyards as well. The aim overall is to produce richer, more flavorful grapes for better wines, and this Cab is a prime example. Grapes are sourced from small growers throughout the County. Low-yield fruit with very concentrated flavors. Handpicked fruit for this Merlot was sourced specifically from areas in Sonoma County that elicit the ultimate expression. In the winery the grapes were cold soaked then fermented in stainless steel, pumping over to submerge the cap. The wine was aged in French and American oak for 16 months. This 2014 was awarded a 93 point Gold Medal in the Critics Challenge Wine Competition. It shows inviting aromas of dark fruit and spice which translate well on the palate to black raspberry, ripe plum and anise flavors that linger on the tongue as its velvety tannins come from behind to give this Merlot a smooth, polished finish.