Merlot (2007)

About this wine

This Merlot from Penns Woods Winery offers a harmonious blend of dark fruit flavors, including blackberry and black cherry, complemented by subtle notes of warm spice and earth. The wine's structure is well-balanced, with medium tannins and a smooth finish that lingers pleasantly. Hailing from Pennsylvania, a region with a winemaking history dating back to 1683, this Merlot showcases the potential of cooler-climate viticulture. The 2007 vintage has aged gracefully, allowing the flavors to integrate seamlessly and develop added complexity. Overall, it's a testament to the quality and character that Pennsylvania wines can achieve.

About the grape

Merlot, a grape variety originating from Bordeaux, France, is known for its early ripening and adaptability to various climates. In Pennsylvania, Merlot thrives in regions like the Brandywine Valley, where the climate and soil conditions are conducive to its cultivation. The 2007 Penns Woods Winery Merlot is a testament to this, showcasing the winery's commitment to producing quality wines from this versatile grape. Pennsylvania's wine industry has a rich history, with the state being the first in the U.S. to grow grapes and make wine, dating back to the 18th century. This legacy continues today, with Merlot playing a significant role in the state's diverse wine offerings.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Penns Woods Winery's 2007 Merlot hails from Pennsylvania's Central Delaware Valley, a region known for its unique terroir that imparts distinctive characteristics to its wines.
• 🍷 This Merlot is celebrated for its complex flavor profile, featuring notes of damson plum, tobacco leaf, warm blackberry crumble, pitted black cherry, wilted rose, and medjool date.
• 🪵 The wine exhibits subtle oak integration, with hints of baking chocolate and clove, contributing to its refined and sophisticated style.
• 📜 Pennsylvania's wine history dates back to 1683, when William Penn planted the first vineyard, laying the foundation for the state's rich viticultural heritage.
• 🏆 The 2007 vintage from Penns Woods Winery showcases the potential of Pennsylvania wines to rival those from more renowned regions, offering a Bordeaux-esque experience with a modern twist.

Palate profile

Producer

Penns Woods Winery was founded in 2001 by Italian immigrant and USMC veteran Gino Razzi, who transitioned from decades as a wine importer to winemaking in Pennsylvania. After rehabilitating a vineyard in Chadds Ford, he began producing premium, Euro-style wines that highlight the unique flavors of the region. The winery has expanded to over 40 acres across three sites in Southeastern Pennsylvania, cultivating 11 different varietals. Notably, Penns Woods Winery is one of only two wineries in the U.S. situated on a national park, offering access to miles of trails in the First State National Historical Park.