Merlot vines grow exceptionally in the Bale Loams of Stags’ Leap: alluvial soils with volcanic ash minerality.  Underneath the top layer exists a deeper layer of sandy loam laced with gravel and cobbles, allowing the kind of quick and thorough drainage that leaves the vines a little thirsty, concentrating their flavors.   Searching for vineyards whose grapes complement the Estate has led us to partnerships with some of Napa Valley’s premiere grape growers.   Careful vineyard selection, followed by meticulous farming yields a Merlot with rich fruit flavors, full body, and firm structure.

Cakebread Cellars Merlot 2005 offers a constellation of bright fruit aromas keyed on fresh black cherry, blueberry and plum, with fragrant scents of rose petal, tea-leaf, tobacco and cocoa adding interest and complexity.  On the compact, supple palate, vibrant cherry, blackberry and cassis flavors are enlivened by a zesty black-tea spiciness that segues into a long, cocoa-tinged finish.  Delicious now, this rich, firmly structured Merlot will soften and develop further nuance with 2-3 years’ additional bottle age.

This is a full-bodied, intense, California wine bursting with flavors of ripe fruit and vanilla, integrated with tannins that remain through the smooth finish.

Medium-full garnet in color, the wine's aromas are principally ripe black currant and blueberry, bolstered by notes of cola, licorice and unsweetened chocolate, as well as spicy oak.  On the palate, the texture is firm but without powerful tannins, its flavors of cassis, black cherry and spice cake.  This Merlot makes a great accompaniment for roasted or grilled red meats (especially lamb), poultry and soft-ripened cheeses. Also partners very well with polenta and sausages.