Merlot Clonal Comparison (2015)
Rachel Stinson
Stinson Vineyards
Summary
A single block of Merlot contains 2 different clones (181 and 343). The clones were harvested identically and separately on the same day. The two lots were processed, fermented, and pressed, racked, and aged identically.
Lab Results
There were not many chemical differences between clones, except for ethanol being lower in 343. 343 had increased color intensity as well.
Sensory Results
There was no significant difference (p<0.05) between the Control (181 and the Trial (343). Of those that correctly identified the difference between trial and control (n=11) 18% preferred the 181 and 64% preferred the 343, and 18% had no preference.
