Merlot from the Ranch 9 Vineyard underpins this wine and provides rich, red fruit tones to the mid-palate. The Ranch 9 Vineyard is located at the Southeast end of the Oak Knoll District. Due to its proximity to the San Pablo Bay, this vineyard tends to be cooler during the afternoon, which is critical for growing rich and complex Merlot. Also blended in is Merlot from the Mitchell Vineyard that sits halfway up the hill on the Western slope of the Mayacamas Mountains in the Northwest corner of the Oak Knoll District near the town of Yountville. This area tends to be a bit warmer and adds the dark fruit and brambles to the wine. 

The final blend is completed with 6% of Cabernet Sauvignon from our estate vineyard in Oak Knoll District in Napa Valley. All of the wine was aged in 40% new French oak, 10% new American oak (both medium plus and heavy toast), and 50% neutral barrels for 22 months.