Tortoise Creek
Tortoise Creek Schoolhouse Cuvée Merlot
Red wine
3.5
Expert Rating
0.0
No Reviews
WINE DESCRIPTION
Tortoise Creek was created by Mel and Janie Master, a British couple with extensive experience in the wine business in both France and California. The name "Tortoise Creek" translates from their home in Provence, "Le Riseau de Tortue," named after the tortoises thriving in their vineyard creek. The concept behind Tortoise Creek is to collaborate with small California farmers who practice sustainable farming. These handcrafted, small-batch wines are selected and blended from growers who embrace this philosophy. In 2008, the Masters partnered with the Sager family, owners of Winesellers, Ltd., to expand their range. Tortoise Creek now offers top-quality Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc, each crafted to represent the best of its varietal and provide exceptional value.
NOTES FROM VINOVOSS SOMMELIER
Tortoise Creek Schoolhouse Cuvée Merlot is a delightful red wine that with the classic characteristics of the Merlot grape variety.With its deep ruby color, this wine offers an inviting aroma of ripe blackberries, plums, and cherries, accompanied by subtle hints of vanilla and spice.
On the palate, the Tortoise Creek Schoolhouse Cuvée Merlot displays a medium to full body, with velvety tannins that provide a smooth and elegant mouthfeel. The flavors of dark fruits continue to shine, with additional notes of blackcurrants and a touch of cocoa. The wine's well-balanced acidity adds freshness and contributes to a long, satisfying finish.
This Merlot is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It complements red meats, such as grilled steak or roasted lamb, and also pairs nicely with hearty pasta dishes or aged cheeses. The Tortoise Creek Schoolhouse Cuvée Merlot is best enjoyed at a slightly cooler temperature, around 16-18°C (61-64°F), to fully appreciate its complex flavors and aromas.
EXPERT RATING
3.5
DRINKING WINDOW
Now
2025
Profile
Sweetness:
Almost dry
Dry
Lusciously Sweet
Alcohol:
Moderate
Very Low Alcohol
Very High
Intensity:
Fragrant
Subtle
Powerful
Body:
Bold
Light Bodied
Full Bodied
Acidity:
Refreshing
Soft
Crisp
Tannin:
Grainy
No Tannin
Grippy
GRAPES (1)
Merlot
ORIGINS
Winery: Tortoise Creek
Region: Central Valley California
The Central Valley of California: A Wine Region of Rich History and Quality
The Central Valley of California is a vast wine region located in the heart of the state. It is bordered by the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the east and the Coast Ranges to the west, and is home to some of the oldest and most renowned wineries in the United States.
The Central Valley has a long and storied history in the wine industry. The first vineyards were planted in the region in the mid-1800s, and the area quickly became known for its quality wines. In the 1900s, the region was home to some of the most famous wineries in the world, including Beaulieu Vineyard, Inglenook, and Beringer. Today, the Central Valley is home to over 200 wineries and is one of the most important wine regions in the United States. It is known for its high-quality wines, and for the juicy, joyful afterwork wines.CUSTOMER RATING
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