2020 Medlock Ames "Yarrow" Merlot, Alexander Valley
WHY WE LOVE IT:
- Named for Yarrow, a native wildflower signifying resilience and renewal
- 93 Points Wine Independent, 92 Points James Suckling, 92 Points International Wine Review - solid critical reviews
- Limited production - only 500 cases produced
- This is an amazing wine at a great price!
WINEMAKER: Abby Watt. Jean Hoefliger Consulting Winemaker. Medlock Ames wines are owned by Chris Medlock James and Ames Morison who have taken organic viticulture and sustainability to a whole new level.
WHAT WE TASTED: Deep garnet-purple in color and enriched with aromas of dark chocolate, mocha, warm spices and tea leaves. A medium to full-bodied palate bursting with black and blue fruit preserves and a bouquet of blackberry, ripe red plum, and berry bramble. The wine is rounded out with smooth and elegant tannins.
AVA DESIGNATED: Alexander Valley, Sonoma County
WHAT WE PAIRED:
- Duck breast with cherry/blackberry gastrique
- Grilled pork collar with root vegetables
- Porcini / mushroom ragù
- Chocolate Lava Cake with Chocolate Truffle
PERSONALITY: Estate-grown Merlot from Bell Mountain Ranch, located on steep hillsides where the southern tip of the Alexander Valley meets the Russian River Valley. The 2020 vintage was the result of a cool spring with lower rainfall which led to a lighter crop followed by some heat spikes and early ripening.
SERVING:
- Decanting recommendation: Open 1hr prior to serving
- Serve at Room Temperature
TECHNICAL:
- 95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
- 21 months in 20% new French oak
- Only 500 cases made
- 14.2% Alcohol
ADDITIONAL NOTES, REVIEWS & RATINGS:
93 Points - The Wine Independent “The 2020 Yarrow Merlot, with 5% Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, is deep garnet-purple in color. It swans out of the glass with gregarious notes of stewed black plums and boysenberry preserves followed by hints of mint tea, lilacs, and dusty soil. The medium to full-bodied palate is bursting with black and blue fruit preserves, supported by velvety tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing long and perfumed.”
92 Points - James Suckling “Great balance and pure fruit flavors give a lot to like about this medium-bodied, lightly tannic wine made from organically grown estate grapes. Tasty red and black cherries and a smooth texture. Drink or hold.”
92 Points - International Wine Review “This Merlot from Medlock Ames begins with pleasant aromas of blueberry, strawberry and black tea. Yarrow has a bouquet of blackberry, plum, berry bramble and prune. The palate is medium to full body with plenty of fruit, and offers hints of black tea on a long, savory finish.”
*Ground shipping in states where allowed. Temperature control shipping in effect May 1 through Sept 15 to protect these fine wines. A small fee will be added to each shipment. You may choose 2 day or overnight air also*. Our summer solutions overnight shipping rate is the best deal!
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