2019 Impensata Ecotone Vineyard Merlot 3 x 750mL

We proudly source our Merlot from the Ecotone Vineyard, the legendary vineyard formerly known as Thorevilos.  Hidden amongst a whimsical forest on rolling hills near the base of Howell Mountain, this renowned vineyard was planted in 1989 by Napa Valley icons David Abreu and Ric Forman. Meticulously cultivated by Abreu for nearly thirty years, the land is now stewarded by Jack Bittner and farmed by the esteemed Bettinelli Family. Planted on white volcanic tufa, the fruit from this unique site exudes extraordinary power, richness, depth, and intense minerality. While Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated wines are the lion's share of what is produced from the 22-acre Ecotone Vineyard, Impensata is proud to be the one and only to source and bottle Ecotone's Merlot. This extraordinary fruit comes from a single acre of thirty-plus-year-old vines, where ribbons of red clay are threaded throughout the tenderloin of the vineyard.   

A vintage defined by 'energy,' 2019 had a mild, temperate summer providing ample phenolic-ripening, acid-preserving hangtime that resulted in classic wines with invigorating freshness, concentrated fruit, impeccable structure, and precise balance. Like the movements of a ballet dancer, our 2019 Ecotone Vineyard Merlot has long, graceful lines exhibited with precision, supported by a powerfully sophisticated and structured core. Full of personality with juicy ripe red and black plum, blood orange, and ripe cherry gingered with crushed violet, bay leaf, dried sage, anise, and bittersweet chocolate. Energetic, enduring, and wildly sensual, this wine is as classic as classic gets - built to last and best enjoyed with patience, either in a decanter or after time spent in the cellar. 229 cases produced.

We encourage you to enjoy this wine with good food and friendly company, inspiring conversation, and laughter late into the evening. Festina Lente ~ Make haste but make time.