Newton Unfiltered Merlot 2002

Newton is among the most pioneering and independent wineries in California. The first American winery to make unfiltered wines, Newton's aim from the start has been to do what the best French estates seek to do?capture the unique scents and tastes of the specific vineyards from which their grapes originate and to make the wine in the most natural, unmanipulated fashion possible. The wines are brilliant, capable of long aging and quite reasonable in price given their exceptional qualities.

December 2008

Aromas of dried flowers contrasted with black berry jam, roasted hazelnuts and a hint of discreet oak reveal that this is a Merlot to capture the imagination. On the palate, bright cherry, sweet currant and strawberry fruit are carried by a powerful structure and well balanced acidity. Try robust meats such as duck, filet mignon or venison served with a red wine reduction sauce. The earthy flavors found in a black olive pesto offer a clever contrast to the bright fruit characters found in this Merlot.

Newton is among the most pioneering and independent wineries in California. The first American winery to make unfiltered wines, Newton's aim from the start has been to do what the best French estates seek to do?capture the unique scents and tastes of the specific vineyards from which their grapes originate and to make the wine in the most natural, unmanipulated fashion possible. The wines are brilliant, capable of long aging and quite reasonable in price given their exceptional qualities.

November 2009

Wine Spectator rating: 90

Sweet uber ripe strawberries and black cherries on the nose. Packs a huge candied dry dusty body with lots of complexity and a long meandering finish. I'm kind of amazed I picked this up for $20.00 at a local wine shop! Might have to pick up a few more...

September 2009

Rating: 88/100 - As reviewed in Wine Advocate # 157 on Feb-05