2019 Pepper Bridge Vineyard
Tasting Notes
The initial smell of the 2019 Pepper Bridge Vineyard is met with dark and dense aromas, a hallmark of the vineyard. These are scents of cocoa, herbs, anise, cinnamon, dark cherry, plums and cedar shavings. Upon tasting, the wine is full of black and blue fruits are supported by allspice, sweet tobacco leaf, and savory saline characters. It is lush and plush with muscular tannins and a long, pleasant finish.
The Year
The growing season began with cold temperatures and snow-fall in February and March. Bud break was right on time and bloom occurred a bit earlier than normal, on June 1st, thanks to some really nice weather in May. Summertime temperatures were normal with plenty of heat units. In the second week of August, the weather became milder than normal and allowed us to have a fantastic fall with beautiful hanging time. Harvest started in mid-September and continued into early October. We got some frost the mid-Octo-ber, but all of our grapes were picked by then. Characteristics of this vintage show wonderful acidity and impeccable balance.
Viticulture
Entirely estate; Certified Sustainable and Salmon Safe. Founding member of VINEA.
Wine Specifics
Varietals: 32% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec, 8% Petit Verdot
Vineyard: 100% Pepper Bridge Vineyard
Awards & Accolades
“The outstanding 2019 Pepper Bridge ‘Pepper Bridge Vineyard’ blend combines near equal parts Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, with 8% Petit Verdot. Aged in 57% new French oak, this unveils ripe boysenberry and chocolate covered espresso bean aroma alongside suggestions of black rose petals and wet gravel. Once on the mouth, this is very elegant with silky tannins that mingle well with heady dark fruit and Turkish coffee flavors. Finishing long with black cherry and minerals, this is delicious wine that is best enjoyed in a year or two. Dring 2023-2039”
— Owen Bargreen, 94 points
