Winemaker Notes
2015 was a very warm year which resulted in wines rich in concentration and this wine from Melka's high elevation vineyard is no exception. The aromatics are so expressive and enticing showing a typicity of Cabernet franc, dry herbs and undertones of ripe compote which give this nose a wow factor. There is a loamy, muscular tension to the wine that segues into its energy in the mouthfeel resulting in a wine that exudes balance and age-worthiness - a must add to the cellar.
Blend: 53% Cabernet Franc, 47% Merlot
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Blended of 53% Cabernet Franc and 47% Merlot, the 2015 Mekerra Proprietary Red has a deep garnet-purple color and compelling nose of crushed red currants, black plums and warm blackberries with touches of spice box, pencil shavings and bay leaves plus a waft of mocha. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the mouth with spicy, fresh black fruit, framed by velvety tannins and great freshness, finishing with lingering earth and mineral notes coming through.
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Wine Spectator
Densely fruited, with warm black currant, açaí and blackberry flavors that have melded together with baker's chocolate, dark tobacco and loam notes. The structure is very fine-grained in feel, giving this hefty wine admirable detail. Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Best from 2020 through 2029.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.