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Biodynamic Merlot from our estate McNab Ranch continues as the star in this wonderful blend, which also includes a touch of biodynamic Cabernet Sauvignon from the estate Butler Ranch, which sits high above McNab. 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, 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, bringing great depth and complexity to the wine. Distinctive tannins will soften with age, and you'll find the wine to be rich and dry, with good fruit featuring blackberry, cherry and touches of herbs, with notes of cedar.--Winemakers Note
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