Our Barrel Select wines showcase special lots of grapes from our very finest North Coast vineyards. We take extra care in crafting these wines to maximize flavor and allow the unique characteristics of the vineyard to be appreciated. Ripe blueberry fruit with hints of mint are accentuated by barrel aging in both France and American oak for 12 months to add complexity and flavor. Some of the handcrafted oak barrels were made at our on-site cooperage, the only one of its kind in America. Merlot is an excellent accompaniment to peppered or herbed roasts, hearty stews and tomato-based pastas.