Meritage rhymes with Heritage. It's a nod to the centuries old blending techniques that made Bordeaux wines famous.
In the Dry Creek Valley it also refers to the decades old family ownership of the Dry Creek Vineyard. It's a proud heritage indeed, that turned 40 years old last year. While I enjoy the wines of Dry Creek Vineyard for many reasons, perhaps the most significant are the wines early accessibility and the ability to age well. There is no doubt in my mind, that the wine which epitomizes that notion, is their Meritage.
The 2002 Dry Creek Vineyard Meritage is now 10+ years old. I would defy anyone tasting this wine to pinpoint it at that age.
In the glass, it's a dark purplish violet color, with bright reflections from core to rim. The nose is nothing short of gorgeous. There's wild berries, new leather, and licorice infused mineral, with sage and menthol. On the palate the wine has persistent flavors of dark red fruits, with plums, menthol, and a gorgeous mouth feel - dusty, powdery tannins that speak to its heritage. It's so lively, with wonderful balance and structure, it could effortlessly continue to cellar. Alas, this way my sole remaining bottle. 92 points, about $20.
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| 2020 Dry Creek Meritage: Love the old label! |
And in the very first line, I see that you're joining the fight against "Meritazhhh" - good on you, John!
ReplyDeleteI love Dry Creek & I love blends. They don't have to be Meritage, they can be just about anything. Anyway, Dry Creek is a great AVA, & Dry Creek Vineyard is a fine example of what the area can produce. I need to make a point of picking some up soon.