Provenance's 2005 Napa Valley Merlot opens with aromas of dark cherry, pomegranate and blackberry intertwined with hints of chocolate cherry liqueur, mineral and cinnamon. The velvety flavors fan out across the palate with more red berry fruit, and then pick up nutmeg and malted chocolate notes on the lingering finish. “Selecting grapes from three diverse Napa Valley regions gives us access to nature’s spice rack,” says Winemaker Chris Cooney. “The coolest region, Los Carneros, yields Merlot with bold spiciness and robust structure. Oak Knoll, a slightly warmer area further up the valley, produces Merlot with distinct cherry aromas and bright acidity. Rutherford, in the heart of the valley, offers ripe plum flavors and a supple palate.”
For gentle extraction, we cold-soaked the partially crushed berries for two days before the two-week fermentation. Aging in French, American and Hungarian oak barrels wove toasty toffee notes through the lush, silky flavors.
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"Focused and Bordeaux-like, with red currant and herb aromas leading to tart, subtly complex black cherry, cedar and spice flavors. Drink now through 2012. 11,400 cases made. –TF" -Rated 89, Wine Spectator
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