2006 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon "Profile"

Winery: Merryvale

Vintage: 2006

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Profile"

Wine Category: Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape blend: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 5% Petite Verdot, & 1% Cabernet Franc

Region: Napa Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $135

Cases produced: 2,300

KWG Score: 94 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Excellent (94)

Review date: October 8, 2009

Wine Review: This wine was my second favorite wine is a blind tasting of ultra premium 2006 Napa Cabs and blends. It was very dark ruby colored and opens with a pleasant light blueberry and black cherry bouquet. On the palate, this wine was full bodied, very nicely balanced, smooth and showed excellent finesse. The flavor profile is a delightful light blueberry and black cherry blend. There was also some nicely integrated light oak and a dash of black pepper. The finish is pleasantly dry and its fine tannins build up and sail away nicely. This elegant red blend is a very nice reflection of the vintage. I would pair this wine with a filet mignon at my favorite steak house over the next couple of years. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: Aromas of cassis, raspberry, perfume and vanilla are interwoven with tobacco, cedar and cocoa. On the palate the wine is dense and concentrated with a finish that is long and complex. This wine will age well for a decade and beyond. We recommend decanting in its youth. Our favorite pairings include beef tenderloin, and herb encrusted rack of lamb.

Organic status: not organic