2016
Merlot
Estate Double River Vineyard
This captivating wine was crafted from Block 6 of our estate vineyard here in Walla Walla. After burying canes in the fall of 2015, this particular block was re-trained on the wire in February of 2016. This resulted in expressive and bright "new" fruit on the cordon. Yields were maintained low and fruit was harvested around 26 brix. This resulted in intensity and balance in the grapes. Our gentle approach with this varietal gives this wine the ability to showcase it's unique DNA and preserve the finesse and beauty of Merlot. It aged for 20 months in French oak, and only 14% new oak was used. This allowed us to respect the fruit and reveal the true sense of place when experiencing this wine.
The nose shows definite hints of prunes, raspberry and rhubarb, followed by subtle notes of vanilla, cedar, dark cherry and pencil shavings. The mouthfeel is silky and round, complementing the beautiful texture. The "sweet" fruit in the mid-palate, along with the unnoticeable higher alcohol content, creates complexity and gives the wine more body. The pleasant finish makes this wine suitable for pairing with a variety of dishes such as tomato based lamb stew, smoked ham, rabbit casserole with prunes, or roasted turkey.
Varieties
86% Merlot
14% Cab. Sauvignon
Vineyard
Double River Vineyard
Appellation
Walla Walla Valley
Oak
100% French Oak
14% New
20 Months
Alcohol
15.3%
Production
164 Cases
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509-522-0200
2901 Old Milton Hwy
Walla Walla, WA 99362
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