2003
Paul Hobbs Merlot, Michael Black Vineyard Napa Valley
Winemaker's Notes
The 2003 vintage is our final vintage of this standout wine, widely considered one of California’s top merlots. We debuted this wine with the 1991 vintage and have enjoyed bringing you small amounts since then. During the 1990s when production of California merlot experienced huge gains, we remained exclusively focused on the fruit from this exemplary, artisan farmed vineyard. We invite you to share in this final vintage-a remarkable swan song achievement.
This wine is a profoundly saturated blue/black with aromas of violets and blackberries exuding from the glass. On the palate the wine reveals richness wrapped with black cherry, vanilla and dark chocolate. Traces of earth and cedar complete this intriguing "cabernet lover’s merlot" with firm yet silky tannins and a heady finish. This is a massive yet supple and stylish wine to enjoy for years to come. Aged 21 months in 62% new French oak and 15% new American oak.
Vineyard
Owner/Manager
Michael Black
Vineyard
Michael Black Vineyard
Appellation
Napa Valley
Clones
Black, One
Vineyard Age
15 years
Site
In the Coombsville area east of the town of Napa. A southeast exposure on a hillside with rocky, volcanic soils.
Yield
2.5 tons/acre
Harvest
Harvest Date
October 2
Harvest Brix
26.6°
Growing Season
The growing season was comprised of cool spring weather followed by moderate temperatures throughout summer. Consistent work in the vineyard was required to maximize sun exposure and encourage full flavor development in the fruit. Much needed hot weather in mid-September secured an excellent harvest (crop).
Winemaking
• Hand-harvested grapes • Fermented in 5-ton closed-top stainless steel fermentors with indigenous yeasts • 6-day cold soak, 22 days total maceration • Spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrels; 4 months to completion • Aged 21 months in oak barrels (85% French, 15% American); 77% new • Varietal composition: 100% merlot • Unblended, unfined and unfiltered; bottled July 2005
