HELLER ESTATE MERLOT

When Gilbert Heller bought the former Durney Vineyards in 1994, he realised that if he was going to make outstanding wine, he had to start with the vineyard. Heller Estate farms 50 ha of organically certified vineyards in the Carmel Valley, producing chemical free grapes without pesticides or herbicides and using environmentally friendly cultivation methods.  They believe that, in the long run, they will produce even quality fruit and healthier vines which live longer.

The winery and vineyards are located 25 miles from the Pacific Ocean in an idyllic setting with sweeping views of the Cachagua Valley, a high mountain valley off the Carmel Valley itself. The vines are located at 1500 to 2000 feet, giving good diurnal temperature differences and leading to great fruit expression.

Gilbert Heller?s wife, Toby, is a sculptor, working mostly in metal, and a rendition of her ?Dances on the Palate? graces the Heller label.

HELLER MERLOT

Grapes:  93% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon  

Viticulture:  The vineyards are planted at an altitude of 1200-1500 feet, producing rich, luscious grapes which result in outstanding premium wines.

Taste: Firm mouth with tight yet complex tannins that spread nicely throughout. Wild berry, toasted herbs and coffee flavours carry through the middle of this broad shouldered, highly extracted wine. Lingering finish of exotic spices and chewy tannins.

Serve:  With red meat dishes, rich spicy dishes and assorted cheeses.