By Stag's Leap Wine Cellars
2006 Chase Creek Merlot

Background
This limited-production wine and its companion, Chase Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, pay tribute to our ongoing efforts to protect and preserve our land and community. Chase Creek runs through our property and is part of a watershed that is crucial to the health of Napa Valley's ecosystem. Our creek restoration work in our estate vineyards has helped not only to create a healthier watershed but also to help us produce more vibrant, energetic wines.

Vineyard
Chase Creek, an offshoot of the Napa River, courses along the western edge of our S.L.V. and FAY vineyards in the Stags Leap District. Over time, erosion diverted the creek from its natural course, and non-native plants took over the creek banks. We replaced these invasive growths with native plants, which attract beneficial insects and pest-fighting raptors, hawks, and owls. Bobcats and coyotes roam the riparian corridor adjacent to our vineyards, and we've seen less soil erosion since the restoration, even after flooding in 2006.

Vintage Details
The year began with flooding in Napa Valley, yet the dormant vines slept through it all. Cool, wet weather delayed the spring bud break by a few weeks, but sunshine returned by early June. In July, a record-setting heat wave lasted about 10 days, which helped the vines catch up to a "normal" place in the typical growing season. Mild weather returned in August and continued through the fall, allowing for a moderately paced, long harvest period.

Wine Details
Appellation: Napa Valley
Blend: 77% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon; 100% estate-grown
Fermentation: In 100% stainless steel tanks
Malolactic Fermentation: 100%
Aging: 24 months in 63% new French oak and 37% previously filled French oak
Alcohol: 13.90%
pH: 3.64
Titratable Acidity: 0.52 g/100ml
Release Date: Spring 2010
Winemaker: Nicki Pruss

Tasting Notes
This is everything Merlot should be: complex, balanced, supple, and refreshing. Layered aromas and flavors of red plum, black cherry, cranberry, vanilla, caramel, clove, allspice, star anise, and bergamot unfold on the nose and palate. Velvety, mouth-coating tannins are balanced by crisp acidity, and the black spice notes acquired from French oak aging lend a slightly savory character. Enjoy this Merlot with osso bucco, lamb ragout, or salmon grilled over a wood fire.
[Information provided by Votto Vines]