Riserva Meritage (1990)

About this wine

The 1990 Ferrari-Carano Riserva Meritage is a full-bodied red wine that offers a harmonious blend of ripe blackcurrant and black cherry flavors, complemented by subtle notes of cedar and toasty oak. This wine is crafted from a combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, reflecting the classic Bordeaux-style blend. Produced in Sonoma County, this vintage has been recognized for its intensity and complexity, with smooth, polished tannins that contribute to its elegant structure. The 1990 vintage has been praised for its rich, sweet, jammy fruit and full body, making it a standout example of Ferrari-Carano's commitment to quality winemaking.

About the grape

The 1990 Ferrari-Carano Riserva Meritage is a blend of classic Bordeaux grape varieties, each contributing unique characteristics to the wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its deep color and robust tannins, forms the backbone of the blend. Merlot adds softness and ripe fruit flavors, while Cabernet Franc introduces aromatic complexity. Malbec contributes deep color and plum-like flavors, and Petit Verdot enhances the wine's structure and aging potential. Ferrari-Carano's meticulous vineyard management in Sonoma County ensures that each varietal reaches optimal ripeness, resulting in a harmonious and well-balanced blend.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The term "Meritage" is a blend of "merit" and "heritage," created in 1988 to describe American wines made in the Bordeaux style without infringing on the Bordeaux region's protected designation.
• 🏞️ Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery, established in 1981 by Don and Rhonda Carano, is renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainable farming practices across its 1,500 acres of vineyards in Sonoma County.
• 🏆 The 1990 vintage of Ferrari-Carano's Reserve Red Table Wine received a 91-point rating from both Robert Parker and Wine Spectator, highlighting its rich, complex flavors and aging potential.
• 🌄 Sonoma County's diverse microclimates and soils contribute to the complexity and depth of wines like the Riserva Meritage, allowing each grape varietal to express its unique characteristics.
• ⏳ The 1990 Riserva Meritage, now over three decades old, is considered a collector's item, reflecting the longevity and evolution of well-crafted Bordeaux-style blends from California.

Palate profile

Producer

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery was founded in 1981 by Don and Rhonda Carano, who were inspired by the beauty of Northern Sonoma County while sourcing wines for their Reno hotel and casino. They began with a 60-acre parcel in Alexander Valley and expanded their holdings over time. The winery released its first wines in 1987, including a 1986 Fumé Blanc and a 1985 Alexander Valley Chardonnay. In 2019, Ferrari-Carano's 21 vineyards earned California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance certification, reflecting their commitment to sustainable practices. The winery is renowned for its Italianate architecture, Villa Fiore hospitality center, and five acres of exquisite gardens that attract numerous visitors annually.