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yAppellationz Kikyogahara, Nagano Prefecture
yVarietyz Merlot 100%
yTrellis Systemz overhead trellis
yHarvestz early October
yFermentationz 14 days, 18-20Ž
yAgingz 7 months in stainless steel tank
yAlcohol Contentz 12.5%
yTotal Acidityz 5.5g/L
yResidual Sugarz 2.0g/L or less
yProductionz 1,915 bottles

yVintagez
Rainy days in the first half of the growing season, and cloudy days in the latter half until August, delayed the growth of the grapes by about one week later than usual. Although the weather became sunnier by the beginning of September, the growth rate was still below normal, and with a relatively low sugar content. We therefore postponed the harvest until the grapes gained full maturity. More of our Merlot than usual did not color well this year.


yTasting Commentsz
A reddish rose color like strawberry juice. A refreshing, attractive bouquet of strawberry, raspberry, candy and starch corn syrup with a hint of toasty flavor. A soft attack with fresh yet mild acidity, which develops into a round feeling across the palate, followed by a subtle astringent aftertaste. Pork or processed pork products will complement this wine's flavor, for example, sauted pork, yam wrapped in bacon, and sausage ratatouille. (Comment on August 2004)