2010 Hoopers Hall California Merlot

About This Wine

Lots of California wineries make Merlot.

But Hoopers Hall doesn’t just make Merlot; it crafts Merlot. And that’s a big difference, because there’s more involved in creating a world-class bottle of Merlot than meets the eye.

Through the early part of its history, Merlot often played a supporting role to Cabernet Sauvignon in rich red blends. The Bordeaux region of France was Red Wine Central, and Merlot was considered an essential ingredient — along with one or two other varietals — in the region’s Cabernet-based cuvees. More recently, particularly in California, Merlot has ascended to star status.

The 2010 Hoopers Hall Merlot embodies the qualities we’ve come to expect in exceptional renditions. There’s plenty of fruit flavor, joined by subtle earth and oak notes to create a wine of great complexity while retaining Merlot’s trademark smoothness. Great with everything from veggie burgers to dark meat chicken, it’s an exceptional wine from a winery that takes Merlot seriously.

About Merlot

Similar to Cabernet Sauvignon but with less tannin and fruit. Delivers earlier maturing wines. Often blended with Cabernet; on its own may soften with age, though fruit flavors may fade.

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:Merlot & Other Red Varieties
• Grape Source:Select Vineyards in Various California Growing Regions
• Aromas & Flavors:Bing Cherry, Tobacco, Black Olive, Cassis and a Hint of Toasted Almond
• Aging Vessels:Assorted Oak Barrels
• When to Drink:Now Through 2013
• Food Pairing Suggestiona veggie burger, or dark meat chicken.

Member Ratings