2012 FiveWise Meritage Blend, Central Coast 750ml 6-Pack

FiveWise - a Meritage Blend from California’s Central Coast

FiveWise was crafted from all five of the noble red varieties to create a bold, complex wine.  It is full-bodied, rich and structured, with a long silky finish.  A Meritage is a blend of at least two of the classic red varietals, with no one varietal making up more than 90%.

The 2012 FiveWise is characterized by intense aromas of lush black fruit, mingled with spice, caramel, and a warm earthiness. It is a full-bodied, rich and structured wine, with a long, silky finish.

Vineyard: The 2012 growing season was late and long, running about two weeks later than usual, but favorable harvest-time conditions allowed us to let the grapes hang until the peak of flavor development. The result of this longer-than-average season is even more intensity and wow-factor than usual and dramatic flavors that increase in lushness as the wine opens up.

Winemaking: The grapes were destemmed, crushed, and fermented in small lots in open top fermenters. To add complexity and retain character, each variety was fermented separately. During the blending process just prior to bottling, the proportion of each varietal was chosen to accentuate the richness of flavor and maximize depth, complexity, mouthfeel and finish.

Blend: Each varietal in our FiveWise Meritage Blend brings a compelling characteristic to the finished wine. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure, rich tannins and power. Merlot contributes lively fruit and a supple texture. Petit Verdot brings intense color and robust flavors. Malbec adds a subtle spiciness and good acidity. And Cabernet Franc brings soft round tannins and notes of dried herbs.