Frog's Leap Rutherford Merlot 2018
Merlot holds a special place in the heart of Frog's Leap as the majority of the fruit comes from the Estate surrounding their winery and historic Red Barn. Situated in the eastern part of Rutherford this vineyard is perfectly suited for growing Merlot, due to its rich, clay loam soils. Over the years the team at Frog's Leap have found that Merlot likes "cool feet" and a "warm body." The clay soils hold more moisture keeping the root-zone cool, while the setting sun over the Mayacamas gives the vines an extra hour of evening sun. Sustainable and dry farming practices reveal the true personality of the varietal, which Frog's Leap describe as having red fruit flavours with a soft, supple texture. The Rutherford Merlot is another great ambassador of the Frog's Leap style - elegant, balanced and restrained. At the winery, there is every expectation that they will be cellaring and enjoying the wines from the 2018 vintage for many decades to come. The vintage, quite simply, was nearly perfect and in every way, one for the ages. Matured for 18 months in a combination of French and American oak the wine offers deep red fruit, plums and cherries and ripe full of perfectly balanced flavours. It can be enjoyed right away but its certainly worth putting a few bottles in the cellar.
