Merlot Opoka 2006

Grape variety

merlot 100% cultivated with natural methods with respect for the natural cycle of the vine

Geographical area

Brda-Slovenija, Collio-Italija

Name of the vineyard

Rusic, Plesivo

Age

20–42 years

Altitude

150-250 m

Exposure

south-west/south-east

Soil type

marl (opoka)

Harvest

hand-picked grapes; selection in our oldest vineyards (42 years); packed in 15kg cases in the end of September and at the beginning of October

Vinification

The grapes are carefully picked when fully mature; 28 days of maceration in contact with the skins in stainless steel tanks.

Maturation

45 months in oak barrels of 225l. Bottled with the waning moon, with no filtration forty-two months after harvest, with very low levels of SO2.

Maturing in the bottle

at least 6 months

 

 

Alcohol

14,5% vol

Total acidity

5,7 g/l

Bottle

0,75 l, 1,5 l, 3 l, 6 l

Bottling

Bottled with the waning moon, with no filtration forty-two months after harvest. In September 2010 - 3.333 bottles 0,75l, 105 bottles 1,5l, 60 bottles 3l, 10 bottles 6l

Serving temperature

18-20°C

Characteristics and description

The merlot variety was brought to Brda from Bordeaux. It is a velvety ruby red. The aroma of mature plums and dark berries gradually develops into the warmth of jams, leather aromas and tobacco. The first impression is sweet. Its taste is soft, rich. A strong structure, with a nice freshnes. Besides a long harmonious development, the wine possesses a long sunset.

Serving suggestions

It's a great merlot that can be served with dishes of modern high cuisine and that can upgrade traditional dishes. It goes well with a wide variety of meat dishes like venison and all kinds of red meat (grilled, dry meat). This wine is excellent with matured slightly spiced sheep cheeses.

Ageing potential

Stored correctly, this wine can be aged fifteen years and even more.