Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the enchanting allure of the 2021 Emmolo Merlot, a masterful Napa Valley creation that redefines the beauty of this classic varietal. This dark, rustic red wine greets you with inviting aromas of mahogany smoke, leather, and brown spice, complemented by lush notes of cherries, plums, and wildflowers. Its smooth, velvety palate unfolds with flavors of caramelized plum, chocolate, and subtle hints of savory bread, all balanced with soft yet prominent tannins. Sourced from the cooler Oak Knoll district, this Merlot benefits from an extended "hang time," achieving exceptional ripeness and depth while maintaining its signature elegance. Perfectly paired with dishes like mushroom risotto, pork chops, or ratatouille, the 2021 Emmolo Merlot is a sophisticated choice for any occasion.
Process & Profile
Emmolo Merlot is sourced from premium vineyards in Napa Valley, including land passed down through generations of the Emmolo family. The unique terroir features light, gravelly soil and benefits from a Mediterranean climate, ideal for cultivating grapes with full ripeness and concentrated flavors. Known for its longer “hang time,” this approach enriches the wine's complexity and balance. Aged in French oak barrels, the result is a wine that is luxuriant yet refined, with smooth tannins and earthy undertones.Tasting Notes
This Merlot presents a dark, rustic red hue and offers an exotic bouquet of fragrances. On the nose, you'll find captivating aromas of blueberries, coffee beans, and subtle notes of sweet spices like cinnamon and anise. The palate unfolds with rich flavors of dark berry crumble, ripe plums, and shaved chocolate, complemented by hints of smoky leather and baking cocoa. A silky entry evolves into a luscious, full-bodied experience, ending in an exceptionally long and satisfying finish with lingering notes of coffee and dark cocoa.What Makes It Special
- Heritage-Driven Winemaking: Emmolo is deeply rooted in the Wagner family's winemaking legacy, with generations of farming expertise shaping its character.
- Prime Terroir: Grapes are sourced from Napa Valley's finest areas, known for their exceptional growing conditions.
- Innovative Techniques: The use of crop thinning and careful vineyard management ensures optimal ripening and intensity in every grape.
- Signature Style: A longer ripening time allows for a richly layered and expressive Merlot, complemented by sophisticated French oak aging.
How to Enjoy
Emmolo Merlot pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Winemaker Jenny Wagner recommends savoring this wine with:- Mushroom risotto
- Grilled sausages or pork chops
- Vegetarian dishes like ratatouille and eggplant parmesan
- Rich, hearty cheeses such as Gouda
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary flavors and aromas of Emmolo Merlot?
Emmolo Merlot offers rich flavors of dark cherries, blueberries, ripe plums, and pomegranate. Aromas include notes of leather, mahogany smoke, sweet spices, and violets, with hints of chocolate and anise.
How is Emmolo Merlot produced?
This wine is crafted with a focus on full ripeness during a longer "hang time," which enhances its rich, earthy, and well-balanced profile. The wine is aged for 19 months in French oak barrels, contributing to its smooth texture and subtle oak notes.
What food pairings work best with Emmolo Merlot?
Ideal pairings include mushroom risotto, grilled sausages, pork chops, ratatouille, and eggplant parmesan. Its smooth tannins also complement savory dishes with leather and cocoa undertones.
What sets Emmolo Merlot apart from other Merlots?
Emmolo Merlot is celebrated for its bold yet balanced profile and its Napa Valley origin, which provides intense concentration of flavor. The use of French oak aging adds layers of complexity, and its velvety texture ensures a refined drinking experience.
How should I serve Emmolo Merlot?
Serve the wine slightly below room temperature, between 60–68°F (15–20°C), to enhance the aromas and flavors. It's recommended to decant for 30 minutes before serving to allow the wine to fully open up.
How long can I cellar Emmolo Merlot?
While enjoyable young, this Merlot can be aged gracefully for 7-10 years, allowing it to develop deeper flavors of chocolate, spice, and earthy nuances.
What is the alcohol content of Emmolo Merlot?
The alcohol content is approximately 15.3%.
What is the winemaking heritage behind Emmolo Merlot?
The Emmolo family has a deep history in Napa Valley winemaking, dating back to 1923 when they arrived from Italy. This legacy is reflected in the meticulous farming practices and quality-driven production techniques used today.
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