# Gallo Family Vineyards Merlot (2024)

- **Producer:** Gallo Family Vineyards
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €7
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** plum, blackberry, cherry, raspberry, vanilla

## About this wine

In 1933, brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo founded their winery in Modesto, California. Four generations later, the family remains one of the world's most recognized wine producers. The Gallo Family Vineyards line is focused on crafting approachable, food-friendly wines that reflect California's sunny vineyards and rich agricultural heritage.

## Interesting facts

- Founded in 1933 by Ernest and Julio Gallo, the winery remains family-owned four generations later.
- Gallo Family Vineyards backs its wines with a proprietary 'Best Taste Promise' guarantee.
- Recipient of the Vinordic Wine Challenge 'Best Value' award.

## Food pairing

The soft tannins, gentle acidity, and subtle residual sweetness make this wine highly versatile with rich, savory dishes like roasted meats, tomato-based sauces, and mildly spiced meals without overwhelming the palate.

## Wine making process

Grapes were harvested at optimal ripeness to encourage easy extraction of skin color and soft tannins. Warm fermentation was conducted using selected yeast strains to enhance aromatic expression. The wine was aged in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks with oak contact to integrate subtle oak influences while maintaining fresh fruit integrity.