Gundlach Bundschu Rhine Merlot

At Gundlach Bundschu, we love Sonoma Merlot. During its dark days following the movie Sideways (remember that classic one liner which sent ripples through wine communities), this downtrodden grape had to valiantly defend itself for years. Well, it’s back! And better than ever on Rhinefarm. This classic Bordeaux varietal is one of the most versatile that exists; it can grow under many different situations, changing personality depending on whether it’s grown in a warm climate or cold. We have both climates on our estate, where we enjoy spicy, red fruit and tannin from the cooler areas and the warmer areas offer black fruit flavors and lushness to the midpalate. These varied flavor profiles allow us a unique opportunity to create a rich, layered wine, much like a chef who has the universe of spices to create a vision. In our Sonoma Valley Merlot, no one characteristic or texture is dominant and they coalesce deliciously. Our Merlots can age up to ten years quite gracefully.