Why Wine: Atwater Estate Vineyards Cabernet-Merlot 2007

Sometimes when you least expect it, you open what may becomes your new favorite bottle of wine. Tonight I opened one of my remaining bottles of Finger Lakes wine purchased at my last tour in December. An Atwater Estate Vineyards, Cabernet-Merlot 2007. A blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 47% Merlot. ($25)

The aromas were of plum and a hint of licorice, almost like a holiday fruit cake, without the spices. In the mouth, the taste was more mature than I thought it should be at it's young age, soft and mellow with a hint of chocolate.  The finish was like drinking a masterpiece of wine blending, long, smooth and dry.  Very early in the year to pick a favorite for 2010, but this one is way out in the lead.

Winemakers notes:

This dynamic duo combines the brawn of Cabernet Sauvignon and the suppleness of Merlot.  Harmonious notes of juicy plums and bittersweet cocoa, pair this wine with hearty cheeses and grilled steak.

I didn't have any steak, so I diced up some New York extra sharp cheddar and settled down in front of the TV and enjoyed an evening of college hoops and Finger Lakes wine.  Can't do much better than that.  So much so, at half time of game, I got on-line and ordered more Atwater Cab-Merlot and Syrah.

Atwater wines can be ordered here..http://atwatervinyards.com

Residual Sugar:                                 0.1%
Alcohol:                                            13.0%
Acid:                                          .71g/100ml
pH:                                                    3.39

Cases Produced:    158

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