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2013 Duckhorn Vineyards Atlas Peak Napa Valley Merlot
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We produced our first Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot in 1978. In the years since, mountain-grown grapes have played an essential role in our Napa Valley Merlot program. Atlas Peak’s temperatures can be as much as 10 degrees cooler than the valley floor, and its high-elevation vineyards are largely above the fog line. This results in long, even ripening that delivers exceptional Merlot vintage after vintage. Our Atlas Peak Merlot displays beautiful concentration with briar berry character alongside wild spice and herb notes.
Wine Profile
Production Notes
Varietal Content: 100% Merlot; Cooperage: 100% French Oak Château-style Barrels (60 Gallons); Age of Barrels: 50% New, 50% Second vintage
Winemaker Notes
The high mountain slopes of Atlas Peak always yield one of our most fascinating and powerful Merlots, and the 2013 vintage is no exception! Aromas of wild blackberry, fig compote, soy and leather rise from the glass, followed by hints of molasses, sweet maple, currant and cocoa powder. On the palate, dusty mountain tannins supported by a bright acidity provide ample structure and set the framework for a wonderfully age-worthy wine.
Production
The 2013 harvest was early, even and excellent with all of our Estate fruit in the winery by October 10th. A warm dry spring brought an early bud break and created ideal conditions for flowering and fruit set. In the weeks after Labor Day, a moderate heat event followed by a period of perfect weather created a dream scenario for end-of-season ripening. Rain was not a factor, and for the second vintage in a row, the quality of the grapes was exceptional throughout Napa Valley.
Other Notes
Released: April 2016
Wine Specs
Wine Specs
Vintage
2013
Varietal
Merlot
Appellation
Napa Valley
Harvest Date
September 25 – 30, 2013
Sugar
26.8° Brix
Acid
0.51 g/100 ml titratable acidity
pH
3.70
Aging
15 Months in Barrel
Fermentation
10-12 days fermentation at 82°F
Bottling Date
May 2015
Alcohol %
14.9
