Vineyards: The Kautz family has been promoting and working with sustainable viticulture for over 35 years. Crop reduction, leaf removal, organic materials and drip irrigation are used throughout the vineyards to improve the quality and intensity of flavors. Cover crops, which attract beneficial insects are also employed. In addition, owl boxes and wood duck boxes are placed around the vineyards and ponds helping to preserve the surrounding habitats. This Merlot comes from soils that are sandy loam and well-drained allowing the wonderful ripeness come through to the grapes.
Winemaker Notes: Straight-forward in style, the Leaping Horse 2018 Merlot has violet and dark fruit aromas with plums, black cherry, cocoa vanilla and sweet oak character creeping into the flavor. Mouth filling yet smooth, Leaping Horse has created an unpretentious wine that can pair with just about anything.
Chef Recommendations: Merlot is a very versatile red that works well with many types of meats. Try ours with roast turkey or chicken, grilled blackened salmon, meat sauced pasta dishes, pork, grilled vegetables or a steak salad. Wine Enthusiast, Aug. 2016 Best Buy (v. 2014)
Blend: 85% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cab Sauvignon
| Appellation: California | Sub-AVA: Lodi | |
| Aging: Three months, New French Oak | ||
| Alcohol: 14.5% | TA: 5.6 pH: 3.52 | RS: 3.2 g/L |
