Angie's Corner
2005 Keenan Merlot
Spring Mountain
With this wine, I am thrilled to be back in the Mayacamas Range of Spring Mountain, high above St. Helena, California. Tucked in the dense fog, you will find another favorite vineyard of mine: Robert Keenan Winery and Vineyard. The rocky soil found on Spring Mountain produces luscious fruit, which translates into rich bodied wines.
Robert Keenan purchased his land in 1974, and inherited a shell of a winery that closed during prohibition. Broken wine casks and crumbling walls was all that was left of the Peter Conradi Winery. In 1977 he was operational and produced his first harvest. He focuses on 3 varietals: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Look for his label to reflect his eco-friendly move to solar power as, the whole winery will soon draw all its power needs from the sun. "Solar powered and sustainably farmed" indicates his move to alternative power.
The 2005 Keenan Merlot is made from 65% Keenan Estate Merlot, and aged in French and American barrels for 18 months. The result is a graceful, smooth wine with quiet fruit. Look for cherry and blackberry on the nose; coffee, cocoa and some cassis on the finish. Robert Parker stated, "The elegant 2005 Merlot reveals a sweet berry-scented nose with notions of roasted herbs...This medium-bodied, well- balanced, and silky merlot should be consumed over the next 5-8 years."
Having personally enjoyed visiting Keenan Estate, these wines are like old friends. I do recommend purchasing a few bottles of this lovely merlot, because Keenan has changed distributers and we actually don't know when we will be able to get any more of these wines. There are only 2 cases or so left in Palate; you really do not want to miss out! I may have hidden a bottle or two in the back for myself...I did warn you that it is one of my favorite vineyards.... At $29.99 this wine is a great buy.
May your champagne be filled with bubbles,
Angie Ann
