Lending to smooth, food-friendly reds, Merlot is one of California’s leading varietals and America‘s second favorite behind Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes for this wine come primarily from Mike Phillips’ Turner Ranch vineyard, and the balance from Dave Phillips’ Chesnut Vineyard - both near the Mokelumne River on the north side of Lodi. Initially produced as a blending option for our Bordeaux program, the quality of both these vineyards garnered attention from the family and winemakers, who decided a stand alone Merlot was a must have!