1997 Merlot

"If not among the bolder, more heavily extracted Merlots, this well-made, mid-sized offering comes complete with nicely ripened cherry-like fruit and a good dollop of sweet oak. It hits the mark in both texture and balance as well, and its plush, minimally tannic style makes it easy to recommend for drinking with but two or three years of additional age." -- Connoisseurs' Guide

90 "Contains 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, and it speaks loudly, with strong, flashy black currant, cedar, plum and chocolate. A flashy, oaky wine. Very pretty stone fruit and berry flavors; dry and complex. Nice wine." -- Wine Enthusiast Magazine

1997 Merlot

Awards

Estate bottled
Mendocino Ridge
78% Merlot
22% Cabernet Sauvignon
0.53 T.A., 3.80 pH
13.5% alcohol
Bottled April 14, 1999
Released July 1, 1999
1690 cases produced
$24.00

Gold, Best of Class, New World International Wine Competition
Gold, Mendocino County Fair
Gold, National Orange Show
Gold, San Francisco International Wine Competition
Silver, Riverside InternationalWine Competition
Silver, West CoastWine Competition
Silver, Los Angeles County Fair
Bronze, San Diego National Wine Competition
Bronze, California State Fair