Californian Merlot provides notes stewed red fruits of raspberry, fig and darker notes such as plum. Oak usage exudes the baking spice aromas which finish like holiday fruit cake at times.
Merlot in higher elevations tend to provide greener aromatics like sage, but are consistent with lower levels of acidity and softer tannins. As with most Californian wines, the rich berry notes are dominant, but delightful herbal notes are present such as eucalyptus or mint.
Originally from Maryland, Tim Smith has had the pleasure of calling Western North Carolina home since 2009. After receiving his bachelors in Hospitality Management from East Carolina University and working for the Biltmore Estate, it became clear that WNC was where he belonged.
His successes include achieving the CMAA Award for wine & beverage programming in 2014-2016 while working at the Cliffs at Walnut Cove. Currently a Certified Sommelier, one of few in the area, through the Court of Master Sommeliers, Smith is now on the path to taking the rigorous Advanced Sommelier test in the fall of 2018. His passion for wine, mentoring and training future hospitality leaders is evident in his current role as Assistant Manager at Canyon Kitchen in Sapphire, NC.
His successes include achieving the CMAA Award for wine & beverage programming in 2014-2016 while working at the Cliffs at Walnut Cove. Currently a Certified Sommelier, one of few in the area, through the Court of Master Sommeliers, Smith is now on the path to taking the rigorous Advanced Sommelier test in the fall of 2018. His passion for wine, mentoring and training future hospitality leaders is evident in his current role as Assistant Manager at Canyon Kitchen in Sapphire, NC.
