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Bonterra Vineyards 2005

Category of Wine: Red
Country : United States
Region: California: Mendocino Valley
Varietal: Merlot
Winery: Bonterra
Vintage: 2005
Price of Wine (USD): $15
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Tasting Notes

  • Notes:
    I found this Merlot to be a pleasant surprise and will buy it again. A great value as well. Just a real good wine to drink before and with dinner.
    Rating: 90 / 100
    Submitted by: kc on 12/31/1969

  • Notes:
    TASTING NOTES FROM THE WINEMAKER BOB BLUE Biodynamic Merlot from our estate McNab Ranch comprises nearly half of this vintage blend, with good representation from dependable Mendocino vineyards such as Tomki. With every new vintage, vigneron Dave Koball has found the nuances in our vineyards that allow Merlot to be one of our most distinctive expressions. McNab exists deep in a valley that’s a bit off the beaten path, and it was first certified for biodynamic farming by the Demeter Association in 1996, more than a decade ago. The vines in many blocks are relatively young, in loamy soils that are well drained. Averaging 800 feet in elevation, most blocks are high enough to experience the wonder of a Mendocino day, where temperature swings can vary by 50 degrees. Rootstocks vary by block, and Merlot clones 3 and 181 dominant, providing a real focus to the wine. Fruit from this ranch makes it easy to defend the notion that organic farming makes for better tasting wines. Our blend for the vintage layers Merlot with Syrah, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon, along with a touch of Grenache, bringing complexity and a slight herbaceous note to the wine. The heritage of Bordeaux is evident here. Aromas of cranberry, chocolate and cola spice add to the somewhat old world style. Evident tannins will soften with age. The Merlot is dry, with good fruit featuring blackberry, cherry and touches of herbs, with notes of cedar.
    Rating: 87 / 100
    Submitted by: Caudill on 12/31/1969