Ironstone Reserve Meritage 2014
Overview
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For the 2014 vintage, the Winemaker chose three of the noble Bordeaux grape varieties to be a part of this magnificent blend which is an exceptionally elegant full-bodied wine. Aromas of blackberry jam, cassis and cola layered by mint and white pepper are displayed. Luscious cooked berry fruit fills the mouth with hints of vanilla, and rich blackberry carries through to a smooth and well-rounded finish. |
Wine Facts
Winemaker Notes
Located at 2,400 feet above sea level, these grapes were Estate-grown at Ironstone’s Hay Station Ranch vineyard, where warm days are cooled by the evening mountain air. This area’s unique soil of decomposed granite mixed with volcanic sediment and red clay produces a wonderful mineral component. The winery practices sustainable viticultural practices such as crop reduction, leaf removal, organic materials and drip irrigation to improve the quality of the grapes and intensity of flavors. Cover crops, which attract beneficial insects, are also employed, as well as the placement of owl and wood duck boxes around the vineyards and ponds to help preserve the surrounding habitats. After undergoing extended fermentation and maceration, the wine was transferred into small French and American oak barrels and aged in Ironstone’s underground caverns for 20 months, to ensure a fuller, richer, finer wine. After aging, the varietals were blended together just before bottling and received additional bottle-aging prior to release.
Serving Hints
Serve at room temperature with simple dishes, such as coq au vin, roasted leg of lamb and braised beef brisket.
Located at 2,400 feet above sea level, these grapes were Estate-grown at Ironstone’s Hay Station Ranch vineyard, where warm days are cooled by the evening mountain air. This area’s unique soil of decomposed granite mixed with volcanic sediment and red clay produces a wonderful mineral component. The winery practices sustainable viticultural practices such as crop reduction, leaf removal, organic materials and drip irrigation to improve the quality of the grapes and intensity of flavors. Cover crops, which attract beneficial insects, are also employed, as well as the placement of owl and wood duck boxes around the vineyards and ponds to help preserve the surrounding habitats. After undergoing extended fermentation and maceration, the wine was transferred into small French and American oak barrels and aged in Ironstone’s underground caverns for 20 months, to ensure a fuller, richer, finer wine. After aging, the varietals were blended together just before bottling and received additional bottle-aging prior to release.
Serving Hints
Serve at room temperature with simple dishes, such as coq au vin, roasted leg of lamb and braised beef brisket.
PRODUCER: Ironstone
COUNTRY: California
REGION: Sierra Foothills, Estate Grown
GRAPE VARIETY: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 2.6 g/l
pH: 3.81
TOTAL ACIDITY: 6.648 g/l
ALCOHOL: 15%
COUNTRY: California
REGION: Sierra Foothills, Estate Grown
GRAPE VARIETY: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 2.6 g/l
pH: 3.81
TOTAL ACIDITY: 6.648 g/l
ALCOHOL: 15%
Press Highlights
Ironstone Vineyards 2012 Grower of the Year, John Kautz Family, California Association of Wine Grape Growers, Jan. 24, 2012Ironstone Vineyards, 2011 Best of Lodi Award, US Commerce Association, Sept. 12, 2011
Ironstone Vineyards 2014 Top 25 Most Awesome Tasting Rooms in California, IntoWine, Michael Cervin, May 2014: 90 Pts - Wine Enthusiast, July 2020
2009: Silver - Calaveras County Wine Competition, 2015
