Nose
This Merlot has a rich aromatic profile with notes of chocolate and dark
cherries.
Palate
The complex fruit flavors are followed by a smooth, velvety finish.
Growing Conditions
The 2015 vintage was one of the warmest growing
seasons on record in Washington. Warm temperatures continued through the spring and
summer, moderating slightly into fall and extending an
early harvest. Overall, 2015 saw very favorable growing conditions,
producing optimal ripening across varieties and yielding
outstanding wines throughout the region. Fruit was sourced from premier vineyard sites throughout
the Columbia Valley, including the Horse Heaven Hills
(for texture and body) and the Wahluke Slope
(for aromatics and complexity).
Winemaking
Grapes were crushed and then fermented for 6-10 days
on skins to extract optimum fruit and textural components. Malolactic fermentation occurred in a combination
of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels.
Aging
The wine aged predominately in both French and American
oak barrels, 40% new, for approximately 17 months. A small
percentage of the wine aged in stainless steel to retain
freshness of fruit and varietal character.
Food Pairing
Pair this wine with blue cheese, duck, beef, veal and dark chocolate.
