2004 Indian Wells Merlot

$17.99 -- The 2004 Indian Wells Merlot displays ripe black cherry aromas and jammy flavors integrated with layers of star anise.

Purchase 2004 Indian Wells Merlot

Tasting Notes

“The 2004 Indian Wells Merlot displays ripe black cherry aromas and jammy flavors integrated with layers of star anise. This is a full bodied Merlot with a soft and round finish.”- Bob Bertheau, WInemaker

Vintage

A hot growing season in 2004 followed by a cool fall created a longer harvest, resulting in wines with ripe, rich flavors.
Hot, dry weather from bud break to mid-August prompted the earliest harvest start on record, beginning August 16.
Cool temperatures and intermittent light rain in mid-September slowed ripening and extended hang time.
Warm temperatures and dry weather resumed in early October through harvest’s end with final berries being picked in early November.

Vineyards

This Merlot is sourced from vineyards throughout the Wahluke Slope in Washington state, including our Indian Wells Vineyard.
Our most northern growing area, the Wahluke Slope is bordered on both the west and the south by the Columbia River.
Indian Wells vineyard is a very warm site with a long growing season.
The site’s loamy, sandy, well-draining soils allow vine growth to be meticulously controlled through drip irrigation and canopy management.
The region is a consistent producer of high quality, ripe fruit, yielding wine with intense color and flavor.

Winemaking

Ripe grapes were destemmed, crushed and inoculated with various strains of yeast to maximize complexity.
Twice daily pumpovers were used to extract optimal flavor and color and minimize harsh tannins.
Aged in 46% American oak, 39% French oak, and 15% European oak for 16 months.
Frequent airative racking took place during barrel aging to soften tannins and enhance mouthfeel.

Technical Data

Alcohol....14.05%
pH.... 3.71
Total Acidity.... 0.58g/100ml
Blend.... 80% Merlot, 20% Syrah

Purchase 2004 Indian Wells Merlot

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2003 Indian Wells Merlot -- This is a lush and fleshy Merlot loaded with jammy, blackberry flavors..."

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2003 Indian Wells Merlot