Merlot Flashcards
What is the visual descriptor of Napa Merlot?
Ruby color with blue tones, moderate-plus concentration
What is the intensity of aromas and flavors in Napa Merlot?
Moderate-plus intensity
Name two types of ripe/lush blue fruit found in Napa Merlot.
- Plum
- Blueberry
What types of ripe black fruit are present in Napa Merlot?
- Black currant
List two types of lush red fruit found in Napa Merlot.
- Red cherry
- Raspberry
What are two additional fruit notes found in Napa Merlot?
- Fig
- Prune
What floral notes are characteristic of Napa Merlot?
- Purple flowers
- Violets
Name two herbal notes present in Napa Merlot.
- Fern
- Bay leaf
What is one spice note found in Napa Merlot?
Christmas spice
What is a characteristic herbal note in Napa Merlot?
Sage
Describe the earthiness in Napa Merlot.
Low to moderate minerality
What type of oak is commonly used in Napa Merlot?
Moderate to high use of new French oak or mixed origin oak
List two flavor notes associated with oak in Napa Merlot.
- Chocolate
- Coffee
What are two sweet flavor notes found in Napa Merlot?
- Mocha
- Sweet baking spices
What is the acidity level typically found in Napa Merlot?
Diminished to moderate acidity
What is the alcohol content level in Napa Merlot?
Elevated to high alcohol
What is the body structure of Napa Merlot?
Moderate-plus to full body
What is the tannin level in Napa Merlot?
Moderate tannin
Fill in the blank: Napa Merlot has a _______ attack.
[ripe]
True or False: Napa Merlot has low acidity.
False
What is the visual descriptor of Right Bank Bordeaux wines?
Ruby color with garnet tones, moderate to moderate-plus concentration
These visual characteristics help in identifying the quality and aging potential of the wine.
What are the primary fruit flavors found in Right Bank Bordeaux wines?
- Blue fruit (plum, blueberry)
- Red fruit (strawberry, raspberry, red cherry)
- Black fruit (blackberry, black cherry)
- Fig/fruitcake
The variety of fruit flavors contributes to the complexity and appeal of the wine.
Which floral notes are commonly associated with Right Bank Bordeaux?
- Purple flowers
- Violets
Floral aromas can enhance the overall sensory experience of the wine.
What herbal notes can be detected in Right Bank Bordeaux wines?
- Mint
- Bay leaf
- Fern
- Tobacco
Herbal notes add depth and interest to the wine’s profile.
Identify the spice notes found in Right Bank Bordeaux wines.
- Licorice/anise
- Christmas spice
Spices can provide warmth and complexity to the wine.
What are the earth characteristics of Right Bank Bordeaux?
Moderate-plus to high minerality, clay, mushroom/truffle
Earthy notes can indicate terroir and influence food pairing.
What is the level of oak influence in Right Bank Bordeaux wines?
Moderate-plus to high use of new French oak, chocolate, coffee, cinnamon, vanilla
Oak aging contributes to the wine’s structure and flavor complexity.
What is the typical structure of Merlot-dominated blends from Right Bank Bordeaux?
- Dry
- Moderate to moderate-plus body
- Moderate to elevated tannin
- Moderate acidity
- Elevated alcohol
The structure affects the wine’s mouthfeel and aging potential.
