Wine information:
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is a private Napa Valley estate that has been owned by the Winiarski family since it was established 1972, located at the end of the Silverado Trail, in what is now known as the Stags Leap District. Approximately 55% of the fruit from the Merlot is from SLWC Arcadia Vineyard with the rest coming from their BRV vineyard. Aged 14 months in new Franch Oak (52%). The wine had a dark, red, inky colour. On the nose there are aromas of green pepper (capsicum), black pepper, pencil shavings and dark fruits including plum, raspberry and dark cherry. There are also spicy, anise and vanilla aromas. The these aromas are all well-integrated into the palate where there are flavours of plum and spices (nutmeg). There are soft, subtle tannins and the finish is silky and medium-bodied. Enjoy the 2005 Merlot with a pork tenderloin in pomegranate sauce or, for more casual fare, try it with a prosciutto and brie panini.