This limited production (1470 cases) Merlot was harvested from the Atlas Peak appellation of Napa Valley in late October of 1998. The use of mountain fruit combined with the extended hang time resulted in a wine of exceptional intensity and complexity. Punching the cap of skins and seeds into the juice throughout fermentation further contributed to this wine's great color and depth of character. We blended 14% Cabernet Sauvignon into the wine to complement the soft, round flavors of Merlot. In a departure from our traditional 18 months of barrel aging for Merlot, this vintage spent almost two years in toasted American oak barrels. The wine has a nose of fresh ripe raspberry and black cherry with hints of nutmeg and buttery oak. On the palate, the complex and round, full flavors are balanced with silky tannins that lead to a clean and pleasing finish. This wine will age well for several years to come. -Robert deLeuze, Winemaker