2006 Merlot

Tasting Notes

This bold, earthy estate Merlot is sure to satisfy... and surprise your palate. We often hear wonderful comments about this wine followed by, “…for a Merlot.” We’re sure that you’ll be very pleasantly surprised as well.

This vintage is 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Ash Hollow Vineyard, the grapes for this wine came from three different blocks. Hand harvesting took place between September 21 and October 18, 2006. All lots were fermented separately and barrel aged in 80% French Oak and 20% American Oak for eighteen months. Eighteen barrels were “cherry-picked” from the Merlot lots to produce this special wine.

Bordeaux in style, our 2006 Estate Merlot is less jammy, yet more structured than might be expected. Layers of beautiful bright cherry notes are folded nicely with a velvety hint of black currant. The mouth feel is big and luscious; a slight hint of creamy vanilla and nicely balanced tannins give this supple wine a luxurious lingering finish. Try with some good dark chocolate. Mmm!

Details

• Blend: 95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Walla Walla Valley
• Vineyards: Ash Hollow
• Bottled: September 2007
• Acidity: .55 g/100ml
• Ph: 3.91
• Alc: 14.3%
• Barrel Regime: 80% French Oak and 20% American Oak
• Total Production: 450 cases