Library Wines
2001 Napa Valley Merlot
Alcohol 14.5%
758 cases produced
100% Estate Grown fruit at Larkmead Vineyards
78% Merlot
22% Cabernet Sauvignon
Aged in 55% new French oak barrels for 18 months
Tasting notes from March 2004:
A deep ruby, purple color leads to aromas of sweet red and black currants, mocha and charcoal. The palate is dense and powerful with sweet black cherry, cassis and minerals. A textured mid-palate and mouth-coating rich tannins provide structure and length. Our finest Merlot to date, the concentration of the wine is apparent in its dense, earthy character, a product of extremely low yields and fully mature fruit. The Cabernet component adds dark chocolate, cassis and structure to the Merlot's lush sweetness and broad texture. Decant for an hour in its youth to experience the wine's full range of flavors. This large-scaled wine will improve for 4 to 5 years in bottle and hold for a decade.