Classic Washington Merlot flavors of blackberry and spice enhanced by a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon for structure and complexity. This wine is soft and luxurious, yet has enough tannin structure to stand up to hearty foods. Food friendly aromas of blackberry, cherry and spice are carried through the lingering velvety finish.
A hot, dry growing season created ideal flavor maturity and promoted an early harvest start. Cool temperatures and intermittent rain in mid-September prompted extended hang time, which allowed the grapes to reach ideal physiologic maturing.
2003 harvest was characterized by smaller berry and cluster size, with intense flavors, good sugar development and high natural acidity.
winemaking