The 2003 harvest kept us on our toes with perfect ripening conditions punctuated by challenging weather. Despite the somewhat temperamental vintage, our Merlot developed outstanding quality with luscious fruit expression. Winter and spring temperatures were mild, with above average rainfall (especially heavy in November, December and January.) A relatively dry February and March gave way to unusually heavy rainfall again in April and May, finally breaking on May 10th. Although 2003 was generally a poor berry set year for Merlot in Napa Valley due to rain during bloom, our cooler mountain top vineyards flowered after the rains ended and set a good crop. June, July and August gave us nearly ideal, temperate weather, with grapes completing veraison (when the grapes develop color and begin to soften) about a week behind normal. Vineyards atop Howell Mountain were less affected by September’s daunting low-humidity heat waves than vineyards on the Napa Valley floor, thanks to the moderating effect of altitude. Cooler temperatures finally arrived on September 22, fostering prolonged ripening that developed rich flavors. We hand harvested our Merlot under ideal "Indian summer" conditions on October 21.

 
The 2003 Merlot begins with beautifully articulated black cherry and blueberry aromas, heightened by licorice and cedar nuances, and framed by toasty oak. Dense, sweet dark fruit character expands across the palate, supported by firm, round tannins and excellent body. This wine combines velvety opulence with the intensity of mountain-grown fruit.
          Thomas Peffer, Winemaker


 
Appellation: Howell Mountain AVA, Napa Valley
 
Grape Varietal: 100% Merlot
 
Vineyard Information: Harvested exclusively from W.S. Keyes Estate Vineyard
 
Harvest Date: October 21, 2003
 
Barrel Regime: 19.5 months in French oak barrels (100% new), Nevers forest, medium-plus toast
 
Final Analysis: 14.3% alcohol by volume; .50g/100ml total acid; 3.75 pH
 
Bottling Date: July 27, 2005
 
Cases Produced: 104 six-bottle cases (750 ml)