Ancient Peaks Santa Margarita Ranch Merlot 2022

The 2022 Ancient Peaks Merlot is a rich and expressive wine from the Santa Margarita Ranch in Paso Robles, California. Sourced from the winery's unique Margarita Vineyard, this Merlot benefits from a diverse mix of five soil types and the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean, which helps to maintain the grapes' acidity and structure.On the nose, it offers inviting aromas of ripe plum, blackberry, and mulberry, with hints of dried herbs, cocoa, and toasty oak. The palate is expansive and velvety, with flavors of black raspberry, cherry, and subtle spice. The wine is balanced by fine-grained tannins and a smooth, lingering finish, making it both approachable and food-friendly. Aged for 17-18 months in a mix of French and American oak, this wine is a classic representation of Paso Robles Merlot, known for its luscious fruit flavors and polished texture.