Wines
Details at a Glance
Blend: 86% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon
Appelation: Columbia Valley
Vineyards: Merlot: 43% Stonetree (Wahluke Slope), 29% Boushey (Yakima Valley), 14% Klipsun (Red Mountain); Cabernet Sauvignon : 100% Alder Ridge (Horse Heaven Hills)
Bottled: April 29, 2011
Acidity: .55%
Ph: 3.80
Barrel Regime: 100 % French Oak; 67% new, 33% used
Total Production: 122 Cases
Prices: $30.00/bottle $324/case
2008 Merlot
The growing season in 2008 was one of cool spring temperatures & rain with a late start for bud break, followed by a summer of average to slightly below average temperatures. Harvest was 10-14 days later than normal, but summer & early fall were dry. Overall, 2008 was a very good vintage across the board with purity of fruit & balance & fine potential to age based on good acid levels.
Teasing with its floral, spicy cherry & currant aromas, our 2008 Merlot is full-bodied, firm & structured, tight & focused, offering glimpses of what lies ahead with its complex mix of flavors & tightly-wound tannins. Yet its finesse & refinement are apparent on the lengthy finish. Our 2008 Merlot is rich with abundant aromas of clove, boysenberry, lilac & brown sugar. It has an amazing mix of concentrated ripe fruit, spicy notes of mineral & earth combined with lively acids.
The best part of our 2008 Merlot is how enjoyable it is now, especially with a hearty sausage cassoulet or herb-crusted pork loin with Manchego polenta. However, don't be afraid to put some bottles away for a few years. Our 2008 Merlot is definitely age-worthy & will be even more phenomenal given a few additional years in the bottle.
Santé,
Marie-Eve Gilla - Winemaker