Cycles Gladiator California Merlot 2006

Cycles Gladiator California Merlot 2006
Region: California
Winery: Cycles Gladiator
Variety: Merlot
Rating:

Made from grapes harvested while cool and touched by the morning dew, the richly colored Cycles Gladiator Central Coast Merlot exhibits a lovely aromatic nose of Emperor Cherry, blackberry and cedar underscored with a subtle hint of pencil shavings and fresh moss. Lush red fruit fills the mouth with increasing intensity and then finishes with plum and green flavors that fill the background. The tannins are substantial at the front yet melt with on the palate, offering a velvety richness opposite of the typically harsh and bitter characteristics of some Merlots. A unique, cool-climate acidity suspends the experience well into the finish. This wine is decidedly ripe and lush, yet substantial enough to stand up to the most demanding cuisine. It is an excellent wine to share at a dinner party. Try paired with an array of savory appetizers such as mushroom- and sausage-smothered polenta squares, skewered peppery beef teriyaki or lamb kabobs with a reduced raspberry balsamic marinade or a complete meal of slow-roasted lamb shank with a butter bean, sautéed mushroom and white onion combo. If cooking sounds too tedious, simply open and enjoy with a grilled burger and classic French fries. Awards Cycles Gladiator 2006 Central Coast Merlot wins Gold Bronze Medal, The Dallas Morning News Wine Competition Silver! -2008 California Mid-State Fair Central Coast Wine Compet Cycles Gladiator 2006 Merlot wins Silver! Silver!- 2008 Grand Harvest Awards Gold Medal! 2008 New World International Wine Competition

Posted by thewinery on January 2nd, 2009 at 10:39pm | report comment