Reviews & Ratings

2005 Alexander Valley Vineyards Merlot "Wetzel Family Estate"

Winery: Alexander Valley Vineyards

Vintage: 2005

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Wetzel Family Estate"

Wine Category: Merlot

Grape blend: Merlot

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Alexander Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $20

Cases produced: 13,500

KWG Score: 88.5 (based on 1 review)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good (88.58)

Review date: August 6, 2008

Wine Review: This ruby wine opens with a very pleasant clove, menthol, and cherry like bouquet. On the palate, this medium bodied wine is balanced, approachable, and displays a burst of sweet black cherry flavors with a touch of clove and oak. The finish is dry, with soft tannins that linger briefly. The panel felt this bargain offering would pair nicely with barbecue chicken or a curried squash soup. Enjoy - KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: Winemaker Kevin Hall calls the 2005 a Merlot that thinks it’s a Cab. There’s a lot of concentration and depth here as well as amazing structure. The great 2005 vintage delivered such good fruit that no other varietal other than Merlot was necessary to round out the blend. There are aromas of blackberry and cassis along with an undertone of vanilla. On the palate, the richness and hefty core of fruit shine along with the velvety tannins.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Alexander Valley Vineyards 2005 Merlot Estate.