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Wine Tasting Notes of Nan & Michael
"Wine Lovers"

No. California & Oregon Wines and Wineries

MERRYVALE VINEYARDS
1000 Main Street, St. Helena
(707) 963-7777
http://www.merryvale.com

Chadonnay grapes

We are convinced that Merryvale produces some excellent wines!

Interesting fact: This winery was the 1st winery built in the Napa Valley after the repeal of prohibition.

Tasting hours: Daily - 10:00 am to 6:30 pm.

Listed wines and/or vintages may no longer be available. Contact the winery for the most recent releases.

2000 Semillon (Napa Valley)
Rich honey and subtle pear-like flavors on the nose carried over to the palate, with the addition of a little spiciness.

2000 "Starmont" Chardonnay (Napa Valley)
Fresh green apples in the aroma with pears on the palate. A long, lingering finish.

2000 Chardonnay (Dutton Ranch, Russian River)
A nice wine. Fruity, yet with hints of butteriness. Good body.

1999 Reserve Chardonnay (Carneros)
The first whiff reminds of citrus fruits, with just a hint of honeydew melon. A rich wine that finishes with oakiness and a hint of butter.

1999 Silhouette Chardonnay (Napa Valley)
The best way to describe this wine is "just plain good!" Lot of butter and oak. A creaminess on the palate. Rich and complex with a long finish. Rated 93 points by Wine Enthusiast.

1999 Reserve Merlot (Napa Valley)
Fragrant nose, dark fruit flavors. This wine was rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast.

1999 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
Blackberries carry through from aroma to palate, with a hint of licorice. Finish brings out semi-sweet chocolates. Will gain complexity for 5-10 years.

1999 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
Dark berry flavors. Rich, silky tannin structure. Rated 90 by Wine Spectator.

1999 Profile (Napa Valley)
This is one of their premier wines, and rightfully so. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, the aroma is full of ripe, sweet berries. Very smooth and flavorful in the mouth. Will age beautifully. Wine Spectator gave it 93 points.

Antigua Dessert Wine
Made from 100% Muscat grapes and fortified with brandy, this wine is reminiscent of Port. Yummy hazelnut and orange peel flavors. We felt it would be delightful with pecan pie. Another plus -- keeps well after opening. Rated 91 by Wine Enthusiast..