Merlot (1997)

About this wine

The 1997 Ferrari-Carano Merlot from Sonoma County offers a rich and velvety experience, showcasing flavors of black cherry, plum, and a hint of mocha. This wine is crafted from grapes sourced from the Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys, each contributing unique characteristics to the blend. The diverse microclimates and soils of these regions result in a complex, multi-dimensional wine with layered flavor components. French oak aging adds a hint of cedar and spice to the wine's intense black cherry and plum flavors. The 1997 vintage is known for its elegant and full-bodied profile, displaying rich, concentrated fruit with supple, well-rounded tannins.

About the grape

Merlot, originally from France's Bordeaux region, was introduced to California in the mid-19th century. By the 1980s and 1990s, it became one of the fastest-growing grape varieties in the state. In Sonoma County, Merlot thrives in diverse microclimates, particularly in areas like Alexander Valley and Dry Creek Valley, where Ferrari-Carano sources its grapes. The 1997 Ferrari-Carano Merlot showcases the winery's commitment to quality, blending fruit from these regions to create a complex and well-rounded wine.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1997 Ferrari-Carano Merlot is a blend of grapes from Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley, each contributing unique characteristics to the wine.
• 🍒 This vintage is known for its rich, concentrated flavors of black cherry and plum, complemented by supple, well-rounded tannins.
• 🪵 Aging in French oak barrels imparts subtle notes of cedar and spice, enhancing the wine's complexity.
• 🍷 The 1997 vintage was particularly favorable in Sonoma County, resulting in wines with excellent structure and aging potential.
• 🌱 Ferrari-Carano's commitment to quality is evident in their sustainable vineyard practices, ensuring the production of high-quality wines year after year.

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.