Sidekick Merlot draws inspiration from another great wine region, the Right Bank of Bordeaux, with a core of 92% merlot and compliment of 8% Cabernet Franc. It is fermented in stainless steel vertical fermenters. Maceration is done for 16 to 20 days with a once-a-day pump over. A fourth of the merlot and all of the cabernet franc is then introduced to new French oak and aged for a minimum of six months. This wine is structured and earthy, but still carries enough red plum fruit to stay pleasantly in balance.