Description
Drawn from the first blocks of Merlot planted by Casey McClellan in 1982, this wine displays the history, character and structure that has made Seven Hills a renowned producer of impeccable Merlot in the three decades since. The vineyard produces small berries with opulent fruit and framed by firm tannin structure, by blending fruit of this inherent quality with a touch of Cabernet and then aging for 20 months in 40% new French oak, Seven Hills has made a wine of elegance and class. An expansive mix of blackberry, dark chocolate, raspberry, pie crust, vanilla bean and tobacco greets the nose. On the palate, there’s ample grace and complexity in the form of an even mouthfeel and notes of cherry and blackberry. The tannins are dusty and subtly sweet, providing the backbone for a layered body, medium in weight. The lengthy finish is accented by touches of brown sugar cocoa powder and vanilla. Ever-drinkable upon release, the wine will improve markedly over the next few years and will cellar beautifully for a decade