We harvested the 2020 Merlot Block 500 grapes on September 12th. The average sugar at harvest was 25.5 Brix- ideal for making high quality, age worthy wines. Post pressing the wine was racked twice and pumped into 17% new, mostly French and other European oak barrels, the rest went into older , mixed barrels. Majority of the wine for the final La Storia blend came from Block 500 with few barrels added from block 510. Our 2020 La Storia Merlot is and has been consistently fine example of the ability of this classic Bordeaux variety to make solid, tasty and age worthy wines. The main aromas and flavors are of dark cherry, plums, a bit of black licorice and herbs. The new oak barrels contribute a touch of vanilla, brown sugar, cocoa dust, and toast. On the mouth the wine is soft and viscous, balancing the acidity and the tannins well for such a young wine. The finish is long and soft with suggestion of sweetness backed by ripe tannins. This wine will age well and will reward your patience if stored well in the next 3-6 years. Cheers!