Fog Mountain, Merlot

Alcohol percentage: 14.5%

Vegan

Area:
Grapes for this wine are selected predominantly from vineyards across California’s North Coast. The mountain slopes offer unique soils and a climate ideally suited for responsible, sustainable agriculture. The fog cools the vineyards, preserving fresh acidity in the grapes and lengthening the ripening period for the development of layered aromatics.

Producer:
Fog Mountain pays homage to the Californian mountain ranges and their cooling fogs, considerably influencing Californian viticulture. The mountains offer unique climatic conditions and varied soils on which to plant vines. At the same time, the fog, with its cooling influence, creates the ideal microclimate, prolonging the growing season and allowing the grapes to ripen fully. All the fruit for these wines is sourced exclusively from sustainably farmed vineyards throughout California, predominantly from the North Coast.

Vintage:
The 2021 vintage came after a cold, relatively dry winter, the exception being a heavy storm in late January. The cold, dry winter produced a fruit set with smaller bunches and berries. Yields were also down about 25% compared to the average. The growing season was ideal, with each hot spell of weather followed by a cool period that allowed the vines to recover. This combined with the low yields to produce excellent fruit intensity shows all the hallmarks of an exceptional vintage.

The Bottle Shop rating:
This has lifted aromas of black cherry and spice on the nose. Flavours of strawberry and clove with earthy notes are complemented by a touch of violet. The palate is medium-bodied with soft, round tannins.