ŠTEKAR MERLOT

The Merlot comes from a 20-year-old hillside vineyard on the property, which produces one of the most special wines at the estate, because the oak that the wine ferments and ages in for 13 months, is entirely Slovenian oak from the oak trees on the property. The wood is cut, dried, and turned into barrels so that the reds of the estate can soften in them, but what makes the Merlot extra special, is it is the only wine that is solely aged in the estate’s own wood. The fruit was brought in for native fermentations in these barrels, and was not filtered before bottling, which is also the only instance when the wine sees any sulfur additions. The fresh quality of fruit, with ample acidity, and lovely supple tannins, make for a remarkable Merlot to drink around the dinner table with many different cuisines. Red cherries, plums, and spices come through on the nose and on the palate, bringing an overall balance to this age worthy red that is truly spectacular.