Frei Brothers Dry Creek Valley Merlot 2022

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Frei Brothers
Label Name:
 
Dry Creek Valley Merlot
Vintage:
 
2022
Country:
 
United States
Region:
 
Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
14.2%
Grape(s):
 
Merlot (often blended with Petite Sirah and small % Cabernet Sauvignon)
Acidity:
 
3
Tannins:
 
4
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
4
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
16-18°C

Awards/Ratings
James Suckling 92 (2022); Wine Spectator 89 (2022). Past vintages have received similar scores (JS 91–92, WS 88–90) and positive reviews noting firm, age-worthy tannins

Tasting Note
Ripe black cherry, plum and red currant with cocoa, mocha, toasted vanilla and dried herbs; plush mid‑palate, moderate spice and firm, age‑worthy tannins with a smooth, lingering finish.

Food Pairing
Roasted chicken, grilled pork, lasagna, mushroom risotto, braised beef; Asian: Peking duck, char siu (BBQ pork), Korean BBQ short ribs, teriyaki chicken, pork belly bao.

Production Method
Cold-soaked Merlot (often co-fermented/blended with Petite Sirah and small Cabernet), primary fermentation, malolactic conversion, aged ~6–8 months in French and American oak to integrate tannins and add vanilla/mocha notes.

Vineyard Info
Frei Brothers traces to Andrew Frei in 1890 (Dry Creek Valley). Now part of the E. & J. Gallo portfolio, producing Reserve Sonoma wines from long-standing grower relationships with sustainable practices.