Hayman & Hill 2005 Napa Valley Merlot - Red Wine

Red Wine by Hayman & Hill from Napa Valley, California. Napa Valley is the king of Californian wine regions, and arguably the king of Merlot. The diverse region is picture perfect at any time of the year and is always a hive of viticultural and winemaking activity. The moderate climate and even ripening conditions are enjoyed by everyone - from the smallest vineyard plots to sprawling, high-pedigree estates. Dark plum and cherry aromas are edged with notes of licorice, and unfold gradually to subtle, smoky oak. Soft and luscious on entry, with bright, almost sweet flavors of ripe stone fruit. The medium weight and stylish finish are typical of Napa Valley's finest Merlot. The full blend of this merlot wine was matured in a variety of oak for fourteen months: American barrels makes up 60% of the aging process, French oak is 20% and Central European oak is 20%. Smooth and dry, this Merlot seems designed to stand alongside food, rather than try and be a food group of its own. It has an earthy, herbaceous quality, with suggestions of cherries and red currants, and a rich scour of tannins. All that gives it a real Bordeaux quality. -Wine Enthusiast