Nose
The wine opens with fruitful aromas.
Palate
This blend weaves together the best of each grape variety to
create a lush, opulent layered wine that is soft and broad with
nice complexity and acidity. Mouth-filling flavors of baked red berries and
currant with subtle earthy accents. With supple tannins and an
expressive finish, this is an extremely food-friendly red wine.
Growing Conditions
After warmer than average 2012 and 2013 vintages, 2014
in Eastern Washington was one of the warmest seasons in
decades with favorable temperature conditions extending
into fall. Overall, 2014 was a pleasant growing season; ripening was
excellent for all varieties in all locations.
Source vineyard:Coyote Canyon Vineyard is the source of some of the finest
grapes in the state. The varieties used in this blend benefit
from the varied topography of the vineyard, which gives
each variety different exposure. The Horse Heaven Hills AVA in Eastern Washington is
mostly dry with less precipitation due to the rain shadow
effect from the surrounding Cascade Mountain range. The terrain consists of south-facing slopes that provide
excellent sun exposure for grape ripening, and protection
from cold airflow during the winter months. Strong wind patterns in the Horse Heaven Hills reduce
canopy size and density and contribute to even ripening by
moderating temperature extremes.
Winemaking
Grapes were harvested, destemmed and crushed with 30%
whole berries remaining to retain softer tannins. Primary
co-fermentation on the skins lasted between 7-14 days.
Aging
Lots were placed in 70% once used and 30% new French oak
barrels for malolactic fermentation. The wine aged for 18 months in barrel.
