Sidekick Merlot 2022

While the fruit comes from several sub appellations of Lodi, the bulk comes from the sandy loam soils of the Mokelumne River adding to its fruit forward body. Components from Borden Ranch and Sloughhouse make up the spicier aromatics. Sidekick Merlot draws inspiration from another great wine region, the Right Bank of Bordeaux, with a core of 90% merlot and compliment of 10% Cabernet Franc. It is fermented in stainless steel vertical fermenters. Maceration is done for 16 to 20 days with a once-a-day pump over. A fourth of the merlot and all of the cabernet franc is then introduced to new French oak and aged for a minimum of six months. This wine is structured and earthy, but still carries enough red plum fruit to stay pleasantly in balance.