Dante Merlot California
Deep ruby to garnet in color, with a ripe, approachable California profile. The nose shows black plum, raspberry, cranberry, blackberry, and fig, layered with cocoa, roasted coffee, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Flavors of juicy cranberry, raspberry, and fig with notes of chocolate, caramel, espresso, and baking spices. Dante is part of the portfolio of Michael Pozzan Winery, a family-run California producer based in Oakville. Michael Pozzan named the Dante line after his eldest son, Michael Dante Pozzan, and designed the range to deliver ripe, accessible California wines at approachable prices.
Grape Varietal: Merlot
Feature: Sustainable, Vegan
Country: United States
Region: California
Appellation: Central Coast
Grape Profile: Merlot typically produces wines with plum, black cherry, blackberry, raspberry, cocoa, herbs, and soft spice. Compared with Cabernet Sauvignon, it generally has softer tannins and a rounder texture, which helps explain its reputation for approachable, plush red wines.
Region Profile: California's Central Coast is a broad appellation which allows producers to draw fruit from different growing areas in order to maintain a consistent house style. Grapes performs particularly well in regions where warm sunny days encourage full ripening while cooler nights help preserve acidity.
Pair with: Grilled and roasted meats and poultry. Hearty vegetables like mushrooms, squash, and carrots. Stews, rich sauces and demi-glazes. Hard, aged cheeses like Gruyère and Cheddar.
