Palate
These 100% Canoe Ridge Estate red wines demonstrate nuance, complexity and sheer Horse Heaven Hills AVA style. Having all the great wines at my disposal for blending, I came up with an original composition of 52% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Malbec and 4% Syrah – a true Red Blend, enjoy the fun!
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.
Planted in 1991, the vineyard at Canoe Ridge Estate is located in Washington’s Horse Heaven Hills AVA on a steep South facing slope to the Columbia River.
The site’s proximity to the river and strong wind patterns protect it from temperature extremes, allowing uniform ripening and excellent color development.
Canoe Ridge Estate vineyard is LIVE and Salmon Safe certified.
Winemaking
Gentle pumpovers were used to extract optimal flavor and color and minimize harsh tannins.
Each individual fermentation tank is tasted daily to evaluate the development of the tannins and structure and find the right moment to drain the wine from the skins.
Aging
Aged for 18 months in 57% Neutral French oak, 41% New French oak and 2% New American oak.
