2006 Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Meritage Red

Tasting Notes

"The 2006 Meritage is a great follow-up to the delicious 2005 vintage. It has a similar aroma profile; blackberry, black licorice, chocolate and rich Bing cherry. An upfront vanilla sweetness is noticed in the aroma which pulls all these attributes together. The palate has juicy cherry, cassis and coffee tones. The wine finishes with a fullness provided by ripe, rich tannins and a lasting finish full of flavor." – Randy Ullom, Winemaster

Acclaim

Gold Medal - 2009 Los Angeles International Wine & Spirits Competition

Key Points

  • "Meritage," pronounced like "heritage," is a combination of the words merit and heritage.
  • Only Meritage Association members may use this terminology. The association was founded in 1988.
  • Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a splash of Cabernet Franc from several counties including San Benito, Napa and San Luis Obispo.
  • Artisan winemaking techniques, such as cold soaking and extended maceration, were used to enhance and simultaneously, soften the tannins, deepen the color and intensify the flavors.
  • Handcrafted in small individual lots throughout the winemaking process -- boutique winery style, for flavor distinction.
  • Coastal San Benito County adds blackberry, dried cherry and cocoa flavors.
  • Napa benchland vineyards provide cassis and licorice flavors with generous, round tannins.

Wine Statistics

Appellation: California
Composition: 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
Growing Regions: 35% Monterey County, 19% San Benito County, 15% Sonoma County, 14% Napa County 7% Mendocino County, 6% Lake County, 4% Solano County
Oak Aging: Wine has been aged on oak that has been toasted heavy, as well as oak toasted to achieve high vanilla and enhanced spice flavors.
Alcohol: 13.5%
T.A.: 0.53g/100ml
pH: 3.70

Downloadable PDF Wine Information

2006 Vintner's Reserve Meritage Red
2005 Vintner's Reserve Meritage Red
2004 Vintner's Reserve Meritage Red
2003 Vintner's Reserve Meritage Red