Kunde "Sonoma Valley" Merlot 2021

Silky, velvety and richly textured, aromas of clove and a complex core of black plum, cherry and dark chocolate. The 2021 vintage experienced a warm ripening period with a couple of heat spikes that accelerated the growing season. Harvested in mid-September to early October, this Merlot expresses the terroir of the vineyard due to the increased hang time. Upon harvest, the grapes were left to cold soak for 6 days. Fermentation included pumpovers twice daily and the juice remained on the skins for 30 days. The wine was aged for 16 months in French, American and hybrid oak barrels (35% new).