2023 Merlot
VIP Exclusive
Tasting Notes
One of my favorite projects to work on every year. This is all estate-grown Merlot from Walla Walla, predominantly from our Schafer site in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. Cherry, raspberry, menthol, sandalwood, and pencil shavings. I am in love with the mouthfeel of this wine. Rich, fat, medium plus tannin, all framed in an intense, ultra-pleasing way. Normally I wouldn’t describe “chalky” tannin in a good way but this has the slightest feeling of chalkiness but in a beautiful, juicy, sensation that I honestly can’t get enough of. The finish lasts for a long time.
- Josh McDaniels, CEO & Director of Winemaking
Technical Notes
BLEND PROFILE
91% Merlot
9% Cabernet Franc
APPELLATION
Walla Walla Valley
PRODUCTION
Cases Produced: 659
ESTATE VINEYARDS
Schafer
McQueen
LeFore
BARREL/AGING PROGRAM
65% new French oak barrels and 2,000 liter Stockinger ovals for 16 months