2008 Merlot
Tasting Notes
The 2008 Merlot is harmonious, seductive aromas of ripe black cherries, black licorice and exotic spices mingle delicately with rich, melting dark chocolate. Wild berries worth hunting for play with the taster asking them to search beneath the rich mouth feel of silky tannins, appetite encouraging acidity and an impressively restrained spicy minerality. A long, persistent finish completes this big, power hungry, stunning wine.
The Year
The 2008 growing season had a mind of its own. The vines starting blooming late, but ended up ripening early. Because of the compressed season, we had to work a little harder to tend our vines properly. Nonetheless, we were thrilled with the outcome. The 2008 vintage displays very supple fruit flavors, perfectly balanced with crisp acidity.
Viticulture
Entirely estate; Certified Sustainable and Salmon Safe. Founding member of VINEA.
Wine Specifics
Varietals: 82% Merlot, 9% Malbec, 9% Cabernet Franc
Vineyards: 42% Seven Hills, 39% Pepper Bridge, 15% Waliser, 4% Octave
Awards & Accolades
“The new releases begin with the 2008 Merlot with contains 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Malbec in the blend. The fruit was sourced nearly equally from Pepper Bridge Vineyard and Seven Hills Vineyard and was aged for 20 months in 47% new oak. Asian spices, incense, violet, cassis, and black cherry lead to a wine with a solid core of savory fruit, plenty of structure, and excellent balance…”
– Jay S Miller, Wine Advocate, 91+ points
“Like a Pepper Bridge Winery Cabernet, this Merlot is built on a firm foundation of tannin. Though it gives up a little at first beyond a hint of plum and sundried tomato, its flavors are more generous, buoyed by a mouthwatering acidity that keeps the wine lively while fine, firm tannins gird its finish. It has a strong future: Cellar, then serve with roast beef.”
– Wine & Spirits, 91 points
