MERLOT                               
Our Tierras (Lands) Merlot is produced small quantities in the Argentinian Patagonia. Spices give a strong and unique patagonian personality to this exquisite wine.
Product File

Product: Estepa Tierras (Lands) Merlot 2005
Varietal Composition: Merlot 100%
Origin: Upper Valley of the Negro River, 39.2º latitude south, Patagonia - Argentina
Type of Soil: Sandy and clayish, with alluvial deposits from the Andes mountains
Estate: "La Antigua" ("the old one")
Age of the Vineyard 40 years old
Plantation Density: 5.700 plants/ha
Training System: Low espalier
Winter Pruning: Simple Guyot
Green Pruning: Bud positioning in November
Harvest Day: Last two weeks of March
Produccíon: 52 hl/ha

Vinification

Harvest: Manual
Destalking: Yes
Crushing: Partial
Fermentation: Epoxy-coated concrete vats
Fermentation Time: 8 days
Temperature: 23/25ºC (maximum)
Maceration: 12 days
Malolactic : Finished in April
Ageing: 55% in French oak barrels
Annual Production: 25.000 bottles
Stowing Time in Bottle: 6 months (minimum)

Analysis

Alcohol: 14,3 %
Total Acidity: 4,8 g/l (tartaric acid)
PH: 3,9
Residual Sugar: 2 g/l

Tasting Notes

Colour: Intense ruby red
Aroma: Dried fruits - spices, vanilla background
Flavour: Concentration of dried fruits, ápices and oak reminiscences
Aftertaste: Very long finish, palate wrapping