TASTING NOTES:
Specially selected and carefully aged, this premier Merlot captures the intense energy of arid vineyards, resulting in velvety blackberry and vanilla flavors.
VINTAGE NOTES:
2018 was another stellar growing season and vintage in Washington. Warm spring temperatures were followed by mild conditions throughout the growing season allowing for extended hang time and flavor development. Cool temperatures at nights helped maintain crisp natural acidity.
VINEYARD NOTES:
This Merlot is sourced from Eastern Washington vineyards in the Horse Heaven Hills and the Wahluke Slope, as well as our Cold Creek Vineyard. Warm, sunny days and cool evening temperatures create ideal conditions for intense aroma and flavor development in the ripening grapes. Vineyards were selected for producing high quality, ripe fruit, yielding wine with intense color and flavor.
WINEMAKING NOTES:
The winemaking team harvested Merlot grapes for pure fruit character and expression. Gentle pumpovers were used to extract optimal flavor and color and minimize harsh tannins. Aged for 18 months in 20% new American, 16% new French oak barrels and 64% neutral American and French oak.
- BLEND:
- 95% Merlot
- 5% Syrah
- TA: 0.51 g/100 mL
- pH: 3.84
- ALCOHOL: 14.5%