2000 TANTALUS MERLOT
HARWOOD VINEYARD

WINEMAKING
We use a slow fermentation technique for maximum fruit extraction. Aging is performed using traditional Bordeaux techniques of gentle periodic racking, egg white fining and malolactic fermentation. Generally we pick the fruit very ripe and let it naturally dictate what we do from there. We ultimately age in the finest French Oak for 22-24 months.

VINEYARD SOURCES
The Harwood Merlot vineyard is located on the winery property at Orange Avenue in Sonoma Valley. Jim Harwood personally manages this vineyard which is located on the valley floor and has planted a mysterious clone and rootstock combination. The vineyard is planted on an old underground Sonoma creekbed which stresses the vines to produce small yields of very intense fruit. Merlot tends to be a site specific grape preferring cool temperatures and rocky soils (exactly what we have).

DESCRIPTION
The Harwood Estate Merlot offers aromas of dried cherry, currants, and black earth. On the palate the wine is medium to full bodied, with a round, supple texture, excellent acidity, and lingering flavors of berry, cherry pepper, dark plums, and fresh leather. Delicious now, or cellar for 2 to 4 years.