Bonterra Merlot 2022

A brilliant deep mahogany red with a glint of purple courtesy of the Petite Sirah, this Merlot’s lovely hue sets the stage for a generous palate of rich, ripe fruit. Aromas of blueberry and plum leap from the glass, layered over a subtle thread of graphite, pencil shaving and a suggestion of dried herbs. This medium-bodied, medium-toast wine has ripe tannins and a long, velvety-smooth finish.

What is the difference between "Organic Wine" and wine "Made with Organic Grapes"?

The grapes we grow that go into wines we label as “made with organic grapes” are held to the same standards as grapes used to make “organic wines”. The only difference between the two categories is a decision to add a small amount of sulfur at the final stage of wine fermentation. Sulfur is a naturally occurring compound used to end fermentation, this ensures the wine does not continue to ferment after it is bottled.

Our Bonterra Merlot wine is “made with organic grapes”, which means that USDA regulations allow us to use a small amount of sulfur to stabilize the wine just before it is bottled, ensuring a consistent, high-quality product every time. The sulfur we choose to add to our wines regularly falls below the regulated amount.

Regulations for “organic wine” do not permit use of any added sulfur. Because organic wine has no added sulfur/sulfites, it is often less consistent in taste and flavor and it ages poorly.

Are there sulfites in Bonterra Merlot wine?

Our winemakers have made the decision to use a limited amount of sulfites in our wines to ensure that the wine you open is the same quality as it was when we bottled it, so we label our wines as ‘made with organic grapes.’

The USDA’s “made with organic grapes” certification allows a maximum of 100ppm of sulfites in wines made with organic grapes – that’s less than 1/3 of the amount of sulfites conventional wines are allowed. The average total sulfites for Bonterra wines are between 70 to 90ppm.

The “organic wine” regulations do not permit use of any added sulfur. Because organic wine has no added sulfur/sulfites, it is often less consistent in taste and flavor and it ages poorly.

We recommend that you contact your physician regarding specific health concerns.

Do organic wines contain sulfur?

Yes, virtually every wine contains sulfur, including organic wines. Sulphur occurs naturally during winemaking as a by-product of fermentation.

Sulphur is used in winemaking to stop fermentation, so the wine does not continue to ferment once it is bottled. Our wine is “made with organic grapes”, which means that USDA regulations allow us to use a small amount of sulfur to stabilize the wine just before it is bottled. The sulfur we choose to add to our wines regularly falls below the regulated amount.

Does Bonterra Merlot wine contain glyphosate?

We actively avoid glyphosate. It is not used in our estate vineyards, nor in partner vineyards we source from.

Shop Merlot, an elegant and medium-bodied wine. Made with organic grapes, our Merlot red wine captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. A brilliant deep mahogany red with hints of purple in the glass showcases the generous notes of rich, ripe organic fruit flavor. By choosing to buy Merlot wine online from us, you're not only treating yourself to a velvety-smooth wine, but also supporting our dedication to sustainable winemaking practices. We believe in nurturing the land and preserving its natural resources for future generations to enjoy. Every bottle of our organically farmed Merlot wine has been crafted with the utmost care for the environment. At the heart of our winemaking philosophy lies a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. A celebration of the vitality derived from organic cultivation, our Merlot wine reflects careful organic farming practices carried out on a dynamic network of estate and partner farms throughout California wine regions. Long before organic produce filled the shelves of neighborhood groceries, our dedicated team was committed to organic farming because we passionately believe that farms teeming with biodiversity—encompassing vines, insects and wildlife, and healthy soils—yield better wines. 

Whether you're planning a cozy evening at home or a celebratory gathering, our online Merlot wine offers the perfect companion for any occasion. Allow the silky tannins and luscious flavors of our red Merlot wines and our other red wines to envelop your palate, leaving you with a sense of satisfaction and delight. Perfect for wine-tasting sessions or casual enjoyment, our Merlot is a favorite among wine drinkers. While you enjoy our Merlot, don't forget to try our delightful Sauvignon Blanc, or Cabernet Sauvignon as well. Order wine online today or join our wine club for the best wine deals.

WARNING: Drinking distilled spirits, beer, coolers, wine and other alcoholic beverages may increase cancer risk, and, during pregnancy, can cause birth defects. For more information go to: www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/BPA.