Annabella Merlot showcases the best of Napa Valley craftsmanship, offering a rich and inviting sensory experience. This dark and velvety red wine greets the nose with luscious aromas of black plum, black cherry, and a hint of cocoa powder, underscored by delicate floral notes of violets. On the palate, it reveals layers of ripe blackberries, supple tannins, and a touch of black licorice, culminating in a smooth, lingering finish. Perfect for pairing with roasted meats, hearty pasta dishes, or aged cheeses, Annabella Merlot is an elegant and approachable choice for any occasion, embodying the charm and complexity of premium Napa Valley wines.
Process & Profile
The Annabella Merlot, crafted by Michael Pozzan Winery, exemplifies Napa Valley's dedication to exceptional winemaking. This wine is a "dark and thoughtful" Merlot, renowned for its refined character and balance. The grapes are carefully selected, ensuring a rich and deeply textured profile. With broad tannins and generous flavors, this Merlot reflects expert craftsmanship and meticulous vineyard management.
Tasting Notes
Annabella Merlot offers a sensory journey through a tapestry of flavors and aromas:
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Aromas: Enticing notes of black plum, black cherry, and subtle hints of black licorice, interwoven with cranberry and cocoa powder.
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Palate: A rich combination of ripe black cherry, dark chocolate, freshly roasted coffee, and a touch of graphite. The firm tannins provide structure, while flavors like vanilla bean and clove emerge on the lingering finish.
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Color: A deep ruby hue with a vivid red rim, reflecting its bold and complex nature.
What Makes It Special
Annabella Merlot distinguishes itself with its remarkable balance of boldness and elegance:
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Napa Valley Terroir: Sourced from one of the world's premium wine regions, the wine captures the essence of Napa Valley's rich soils and ideal climate.
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Artisanal Craftsmanship: Produced by Michael Pozzan Winery, the wine reflects decades of winemaking expertise and a commitment to quality.
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Versatility: Its depth of flavor and polished tannins make it suitable for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring for further development.
How to Enjoy
Annabella Merlot is as versatile in pairing as it is indulgent on its own:
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Pairings: Complement its bold profile with hearty dishes like braised short ribs, roasted lamb, or creamy mushroom risotto. For a lighter option, pair it with aged cheeses or dark chocolate desserts.
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Serving Recommendations: Serve at a temperature of 60–65°F to bring out the optimal flavors and aromas.
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Occasions: Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, Annabella Merlot's sophistication elevates any setting.
Indulge in the rich, nuanced elegance of Annabella Merlot—a true testament to Napa Valley winemaking at its finest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tasting notes of Annabella Merlot?
Annabella Merlot features generous aromas of black cherry, cranberry, cocoa powder, and violets. The palate is rich with flavors of plum, black cherry, and hints of black licorice, offering a smooth and elegant finish.
What dishes pair well with Annabella Merlot?
Annabella Merlot pairs beautifully with roasted meats, hearty pasta dishes, grilled vegetables, and creamy cheeses. Its rich flavors and velvety texture complement dishes like beef tenderloin, mushroom risotto, or a classic spaghetti Bolognese.
What is the ideal serving temperature for Annabella Merlot?
This Merlot is best enjoyed when served slightly below room temperature, ideally between 60–68°F (15–20°C). This emphasizes the wine's aromas and smooth texture.
Does Annabella Merlot need to be decanted?
While Annabella Merlot does not require decanting, allowing it to breathe for about 30 minutes enhances its aromas and flavors. For older or particularly complex vintages, decanting is recommended.
How long can I cellar Annabella Merlot?
Annabella Merlot can be enjoyed immediately but also has the potential to age for several years. Proper aging enhances its complexity, bringing out deeper flavors and a softer texture. Depending on storage conditions, it can age gracefully for 5–7 years or more.
What makes Merlot unique compared to other red wines?
Merlot is known for its smooth, velvety texture, medium body, and rich flavors of black cherry, plum, and chocolate. It typically has softer tannins and lower acidity compared to Cabernet Sauvignon, making it approachable and versatile.
Is Annabella Merlot a dry wine?
Yes, Annabella Merlot is a dry red wine, characterized by its rich fruit flavors and balanced structure without residual sweetness.
Where is Annabella Merlot sourced from?
The grapes for Annabella Merlot are carefully selected from Napa Valley, a renowned wine region known for its exceptional terroir and ideal climate for growing Merlot grapes.
What glass should I use for serving Annabella Merlot?
To bring out the full aroma and flavor profile, serve Annabella Merlot in a large, oversized wine glass. This shape promotes proper aeration and highlights its rich and complex notes.
What makes Annabella Merlot stand out?
Annabella Merlot stands out for its elegant balance of fruit and subtle spice, its smooth, velvety texture, and its ability to pair well with a variety of dishes. Its approachable nature makes it perfect for both wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.