2007 Merlot

  

 

Winemaker Notes

Densely packed, luscious flavors of ripe raspberries, currants, and Italian plums explode in the palate of our 2007 Merlot.  Hints of cinnamon and flower petals mingle with touches of dark chocolate. Rich, layered and concentrated, this plush Merlot finishes with a core of dark red fruits and a long, persistent, velvety texture.    - Jean-François Pellet, Winemaker

The 2007 Vintage

The 2007 vintage reminded us a lot of 2005, which we considered a classic Washington vintage. Bud break started around the third week in April, and very warm, sunny days filled the summer. We had plenty of heat units to fully ripen the grapes. Then the weather cooled off a little earlier than usual, dropping into the 80s around the end of August. This cooling-down period maximized flavor development. The wines from the 2007 vintage have terrific fruit intensity, show great natural acidity and are beautifully balanced.


Wine Specifics

Varietal(s):    89% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vineyard(s):    55% Pepper Bridge Vineyard, 45% Seven Hills Vineyard
Appellation:    100% Walla Walla Valley
Oak Program:    100% French oak; 47% new oak, 53% used oak        
Time in Barrels:    18 months
Harvest Date(s):    September 13 through October 2, 2007
Brix at Harvest:    25.8
Total Acidity:    0.62 g/ml
pH:    3.68
Finished Alcohol:    14.1% by volume
Total Production:    1,554 (9L cases) & 30 cases of magnums
Bottling Date:    March 23-24, 2009
Anticipated Release Date:    December 3, 2009    
Suggested Retail Price:    $50.00  (Bridge Club price:  $40)

To purchase, call 509-525-6502.