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Barnard Griffin Merlot Reserve 05

Barnard Griffin's Reserve Merlot 05 received 92 points from Wine Spectator: "Ripe and juicy, with a mouthful of cherry and currant fruit at the core, hinting at carpaccio and red beet notes as the flavors roll on and on. Wafts of cardamom and white pepper add interest to the finish. Drink now through 2015/ 230 cases made. " HS

Barnard Griffin's Reserve Merlot is not only a perpetual best seller, it receives big ratings and lots of awards every vintage. It's both accessible and complex - big black cherry, plum, and cassis flavors combine smoothly into a wine that is ready to drink but could be cellared.

"The aromas of black current and blackberries are predominant. There is a spicy richness due to 100% new French oak used in barrel aging. This wine drinks great now and has some punch worthy of 10-12 years aging." - the winemaker

Detailed Info, Previous Vintage Notes, Reviews:

Previous Vintage tasting Notes

This Merlot is complex and layered and displays the intensity that can be developed in Washington State. While soft and approachable for near-term enjoyment, the subtle structural tannins and acid backbone give this wine excellent potential for aging. It is a splendid match for rich meats, dark red pasta sauces, smoked grilled salmon and is beautifully matched with Cajun or spicy oriental foods!

The winemaker is particularly challenged with Bordeaux type red wines, where not only the vineyards, but also the varieties can be blended freely. The 1998 Barnard Griffin Merlot is blended from Merlot (and Cabernet Sauvignon at 9%) grown in the following vineyards:
Conner Lee Vineyard
Whaluke Slope Vineyard
Ciel du Cheval Vine yard
Caroway Vineyard
Champoux Vineyard
Crawford Vineyard

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