Introduction:
The 2023 Broadside Merlot “Margarita Vineyard” is a deep, expressive red from the cool‑climate Margarita Vineyard in the Paso Robles / Central Coast region of California. It reveals both opulent fruit and refined structure—offering stylish richness without losing its balance.

Terroir:
Sourced from Margarita Vineyard, one of the cooler sub‑sites within the Paso Robles AVA, the vines benefit from well‑drained soils and significant diurnal temperature shifts. These conditions help the Merlot grapes achieve generous ripeness while retaining fresh acidity and minerality, contributing to the wine’s layered profile.

Appearance:
In the glass the wine shows a deep ruby to garnet color, signaling concentrated fruit and youthful vitality. The saturation suggests a medium‑full body with significant presence.

Nose:
The aromatics display black cherry, ripe plum, and boysenberry, layered with hints of chocolate, licorice and cedar. Subtle spice—white pepper and tobacco leaf—emerges along with a touch of violet or dark floral lift.

Palate:
On the palate, plush red and dark fruit lead—black cherry, plum compote, bramble—with a backdrop of cocoa, dried herb and peppery spice. The tannins are firm yet supple, giving the wine structure without harshness. Bright acidity maintains freshness and lift, preventing the richness from turning heavy.

Finish:
The finish is long and satisfying. Fruit echoes persist, with spice and licorice fading into a hint of chalky minerality. The balance of fruit, tannin, and acidity leaves a polished impression and invites the next sip.

Overall Impression:
This 2023 Broadside Merlot “Margarita Vineyard” is a standout expression of its varietal and site: ripe and bold, yet elegant and precise. It delivers both power and composure—ideal for immediately enjoying yet built to handle a few years of bottle age. A very strong offering for lovers of Californian premium Merlot.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Meat dish: Grilled rib‑eye with rosemary-garlic butter or slow-roasted lamb shoulder with herb crust — the wine’s fruit and spice match rich, savory flavors beautifully.

• Vegetarian option: Portobello mushroom steak with balsamic glaze or lentil-and-walnut ragù over pappardelle — the wine’s depth and earthy spice complement hearty vegetarian fare.

• Cheese pairing: Aged Manchego or a firmer semi‑hard cheese like aged Gouda — the wine’s tannin structure and spicy fruit support the cheese’s richness without being overpowered.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): ~14.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainably farmed estate vineyard
Producer Name: Broadside
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Paso Robles AVA / Central Coast, California
Grape Varietals: Merlot (dominant)
Vintage: 2023 (Note: public data more commonly available for 2022)
Wine Style: Dry red; rich dark‑fruit driven with peppery spice, licorice and structure. Medium‑full body.
Winemaking Techniques: Cold soak, fermentation in stainless steel or mixed vessel, aged in French oak barrels (portion new) to build complexity while preserving varietal clarity.
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Standard glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork