Sterling Three Palms Vineyard Merlot 2006

With great structure, depth and concentration, our 2006 Three Palms Vineyard Merlot tells the story of an unusual vineyard in Napa Valley. The wine's intense, ripe black cherry aromas and expansive flavors slowly unfold to reveal complex notes of mineral, mocha, spice, rose and toasty oak. This beautifully balanced expression of Merlot comes from vines that struggle in rocky, volcanic soils along the eastern flank of Napa Valley. Winemaker Michael Westrick attributes the wine's distinctive mineral character and remarkable weight on the palate to the vineyard's unique terroir. Structured with tannins that combine power with suppleness, this wine delivers luscious, complex flavors now, yet promises cellar-worthiness.