LE MACCHIOLE MESSORIO 2017 skus_2304030 The inaugural release of our

The inaugural release of our Matchbook Estate Bottled Petit Verdot showcases the advantage of the Dunnigan Hills appellation’s long growing season: the varietal characteristics of this Bordeaux grape develop fully when allowed to slowly ripen well into the Fall

it is the heart of fine wine production in the United States

which are at the base of its ease of drinking

pine nut and sweet star anise

as created by Don Jaime Sprock in 1942 after he tasted his way around the islands

LE MACCHIOLE MESSORIO 2017 skus_2304030 The inaugural release of ourThe Messorio (100% Merlot) was slightly shy and slow to open when I tasted it as a barrel sample some eight months previous to this tasting. I can't say that the wine has opened much since then. It continues to show a tight and slightly austere bouquet with dark fruit, spice and leather. You don't get that quintessentially soft side of the grape. Instead, this Merlot feels a bit thorny and prickly in places due to the much cooler growing conditions.