Nose
The fragrant nose presents beautiful notes of blueberry, rose petal, dark chocolate and cherry. You will also find pronounced hints of cedar, graphite, pencil shavings and leather.
Palate
The mouth feel is sweet, supple and viscous, with ripe berry fruits woven together through layers of rich oak, generous tannin and fair acidity. The balance between fruit and oak makes the wine stand out even more, showing the elegance of Merlot and Cabernet Franc through the warm, soft oak tones. The ripe berry flavors will linger on the palate, with just enough oak impact in the background.
Growing Conditions
Each year we select the best Merlot and Cabernet Franc fruit and dedicate it to our Inspired blend. In 2014, Merlot from Wallula, Gamache and Double Canyon was chosen for this high-tier cuvée. The Cabernet Franc for this particular vintage was grown at Les Collines Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley.
Harvest
All fruit was hand-picked, sorted and handled with extra care in the cellar.
Winemaking
Extended maceration and slow, lengthy fermentations.
Aging
20 months of barrel aging in 85% French oak, 15% American Oak, 85% new. After this period, only the most expressive and complex lots were chosen for this blend.
Food Pairing
This wine can definitely be enjoyed by itself but will hopefully inspire you to pair it with dishes such as roasted quail, veal chops with rosemary and garlic or sautéed calf’s liver.
