| Producer | 181 |
| Country | United States |
| Region | California |
| Subregion | Lodi |
| Varietal | Merlot |
| Vintage | 2015 |
| Sku | 17635 |
| Size | 750ml |
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181 Merlot is a lavish expression of classic Bordeaux-style Merlot, bursting with plush tannins and sumptuous notes of black cherry, vanilla, stone fruit and toast. Flavors of currant and spicy cedar end with a lingering, luxurious finish. The 181 merlot clone traces its origins to Pomerol in Bordeaux, where it was valued due to its suitability to the red clay soils of the region. Clay soil retains water well and stays cool longer in spring, thus delaying bud break which is adesired outcome for Merlot. The red soils of our Clay Station Vineyard in Lodi are similar to the red soils in Pomerol, making 181 the perfect clone to grow rich, luscious merlot.
For centuries, vintners have singled out individual vines that produce exceptional grapes. A select few have stood the test of time and have been granted numbers to distinguish them. Noble Vines.
BEHIND THE NUMBERS
“Of the many Merlot selections registered in California, Merlot number 181 rises to the top for its pronounced berry character and fine tannins. This revered Merlot’s roots go very deep – all the way to the great châteaux of Pomerol in Bordeaux, France, home of the world’s most famous Merlot-based wines. But this vine is very choosy, demanding growing conditions like its ancestral vineyards. What makes Noble Vines’ Clay Station and our other nearby Lodi vineyards such a welcoming match for 181 is its perfect soil mix of sand and clay – ideal for both water retention and aeration – as in Bordeaux. Also, the stone “cobbles” interspersed in the red clay allow for deep root penetration, which makes for stable vines that withstand periods of low moisture and heat to offer consistent, high quality fruit. Clay Station is a worthy California home for the venerable Merlot 181.”
– Charlie Hossom, WineGrower
WINEMAKING
Lodi produces Merlot fruit of exceptional quality due to its warm, dry growing seasons and well-balanced crop loads. Moderate summer weather and steady autumnal temperatures allow the grapes to gradually ripen, delivering full-flavored fruit by harvest. In the winery, we ferment at cool temperatures to balance the bright acidity with deep fruit flavors, then transfer a portion of the wine to age on French and American oak for minimum of two months to further develop the complexity of the final blend.
TASTING NOTES
Noble Vines Merlot 181 is an expressive Merlot – softer tannins than Cabernet Sauvignon, but equal in elegance and flavor concentration. It opens with plush black cherry aromas, with a palate of cherries, baked plums, black olive and hints of clove and nutmeg, and toasty oak. Merlot 181 is medium-bodied, supple in texture and provides a long, lingering finish. Its gentle balance of tannins and acidity makes it a perfect companion for pasta with sausage and roasted peppers or pan-seared steak with sautéed mushrooms.
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