Sileni Cellar Selection Merlot 2020

In ancient Greece the Sileni were companions of Dionysus, the god of wine, vineyards and theatre. When there was something to be celebrated, the Sileni were always on hand to encourage enjoyment of delicious food, great wine and social interaction. Named in their honour, Sileni Estates produces a range of wines made to be great collaborators, with a talent for enhancing flavours and textures. The Sileni Cellar Selection Merlot is a blend of parcels sourced from the Sileni Lyons, Wedd, Talbot, JV and Hikumutu vineyards within the Bridge Pa Triangle Winegrowing Region, located on the Heretaunga Plains, Hawke's Bay. The Heretaunga Plains is one of the warmest areas in Hawke's Bay and coupled with the free draining red metal gravels provide the ideal conditions for growing Merlot. Fermented in closed top stainless steel tanks with gentle maceration via rummage and pump-overs to extract colour and tannins. Inoculated with cultured yeasts to promote fruit aromatics, the wine was also co-inoculated for malolactic fermentation during primary which further enhances its fruit forwardness. Only a small proportion of oak to highlight aromatics and provide some extra richness to the palate. This wine is bottled early to capture its vibrancy. Grape Variety: Merlot Vintage: Year 2020 Alcohol: 12.5% pH: 3.54