Marilyn Norma Jeane Merlot 2001

Release date: November 1, 2001 A young merlot by the producers of Marilyn Merlot. Vineyard: Tallerico Vineyard, French Camp, California Harvested: September 12, 2001 Blend: 83% Merlot, 17% Syrah Cool fermented and pressed before dryness to capture fresh fruit aromas and flavors and to enhance softness. "The 2001 season provided great growing conditions. Early spring temperatures were ideal for bloom and a hot spell during late spring provided a good balance between crop load and canopy by suppressing excessive canopy development. Mid-summer brought cooler than normal temperatures. These conditions resulted in uniform clusters with relatively small berries, good color, superior development, and an anticipated earlier than normal harvest." Lou Tallerico, vineyard owner. The 2001 Norma Jeane, a single vineyard merlot from the French Camp area of Northern California, was made and bottled at our Oakville facility in Napa Valley in a fresh, fruity style like our previous Norma Jeane wines.