M5 Mission statement:  M5 is a wine that is from a thought—a blend that is an amalgamation of memories, both distant and recent, from the numerous wines I have tasted and loved. ~ Doug Margerum

M5 reserve is M5 that is aged an additional year in a 500 liter seasoned French Oak puncheons creating a richer more complex wine.

Vineyard Regions: Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County, Sta. Rita Hills, and Foxen Canyon

Vintage Conditions: The 2013 vintage is going to go down as a great one. Following a dry winter, there was early bud break and a large fruit set. The growing season was even and warm, flowing into a moderate, dry fall.  The standout characteristic for 2013 wines: complete ripeness without high sugar levels.  The wines are powerful and concentrated.  The worry in Santa Barbara is about the drought.  The lack of rainfall has positive quality implications, but we need winter rains to recharge our aquifers and cleanse our soils.

Maturation: This wine was matured for 21 months in neutral French oak Puncheons.

The Blend: 51% Grenache, 32% Syrah, 12% Mourvèdre, 4% Counoise, 1% Cinsault

Color:  Dark rich jammy red with crimson red hues

Aroma:  Red meats, dark berry and black peppers with spice, cola and exotic savage notes.

Palate: Earthy and savory notes balanced with black dry aged fruits and berries. Tight, focused, and chewy with firm tannins that will bode well for aging. 

Alcohol: 14.1%

pH 3.65

TA 6.5 g/L

Production: 520 six packs