VINEYARDS
Grapes are grown on the Wahluke Slope, one of the warmest areas in the state.
Vineyards receive only 6-8 inches of rainfall annually.
Drip irrigation is used, allowing precise control of vine growth patterns.
Soils are deep and sandy with low water-holding capacity.
VINIFICATION
After inoculation with Prise de Mousse yeast, whole berry fruit was fermented
on the skins in open top fermenters.
Twice-daily gentle sprayovers to extract color and tannins.
After 6 days on the skins, free run juice placed in small stainless steel fermenters.
18 months barrel aging in French and American oak.
Gravity racking every three months to naturally filter the wine.
Showcases varietal flavors of Washington Merlot.
WINEMAKERS NOTES
A traditional merlot bursting with rich black cherry and black raspberry
aromas and flavors. The palate is enhanced by just a touch of rosemary and
white pepper notes. A hint of oak rounds out the soft, juicy tannins and lingers well into the finish.
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