Matanzas Creek Merlot, Sonoma County, California

Bright yet structured, the 2022 Matanzas Creek Merlot from Alexander Valley is a finely crafted expression of Sonoma County terroir. With fruit drawn from mountain and valley vineyards, this Merlot balances elegance and power, capturing the estate’s hallmark style of site-driven winemaking that has defined Matanzas Creek for over four decades.

Product Details:

• Varietal Composition: 93% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec
• Vineyards: 85% Alexander Mountain Estate, 10% Taylor Peak Vineyard, 5% Kellogg Vineyard
• Alcohol: 14.3%
• Aging: 16 months in French oak, 18% new
• Winemaker: Marcia Torres Forno
• Cases Produced: 1,600

Sensory Description:

The 2022 vintage opens with vibrant aromas of violets, marionberry, and ripe plum. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with a silky, smooth texture framed by supple tannins. Flavors of fresh dark fruit are layered with subtle oak tones, offering harmony between fruit concentration, acidity, and structure. The finish is polished, showcasing the careful balance achieved in this remarkable vintage.

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 1977, Matanzas Creek Winery has been a benchmark of Sonoma County winemaking for more than 45 years. Known for its estate vineyards, lavender fields, and dedication to sustainable farming, Matanzas Creek has earned recognition for both its wines and its stewardship of the land. Today, under the direction of winemaker Marcia Torres Forno, the estate continues to craft terroir-driven wines that express the unique character of Sonoma’s varied landscapes.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 55–60 °F for optimal expression. This Merlot pairs beautifully with beet salad and goat cheese, fried eggplant, or roasted chicken served alongside cardamom-cumin basmati rice. Its supple tannins and fresh acidity make it equally versatile for casual dinners and refined occasions.

The 2022 Matanzas Creek Merlot is a graceful yet robust expression of Alexander Valley, an age-worthy red that reflects both the beauty of its vineyards and the winery’s enduring dedication to balance, authenticity, and place.