18 Bonita Merlot

75% Merlot; 25% Cabernet Sauvignon
Bordeaux varieties have always done well in the high valleys of Arizona. While not quite as voluptuous as examples from some of the warmer growing regions of California, Arizona Merlot has great complexity and depth. It can certainly stand-alone or be called upon to contribute richness and body to blends. Lore concerning the naming of this great grape tells the story of the crow-like bird called the “Merlau” that loved the grape so much that early grape farmers began referring to the grape interchangeably with the bird itself. Enjoy this old-world take on this great grape and its classic display of black cherry, dark plums, blackberry, and hints of toasty oak.