“This is a serious Merlot for the price, yet still soft and satisfying. We craft this Merlot to be on the approachable side with a core of red cherries and ripe fruit. We call this our "I’ll have another glass please" Merlot.”
-Bob Bertheau, Head Winemaker
One of "50 Wines You Can Always Trust" Food & Wine
"Top quality merlot to keep an eye out for."Washington Post
89 pts.Wine Spectator (2002 Vintage)
****Restaurant Wine (2001 Vintage)
88 pts.Wine & Spirits (2000 Vintage)
93 pts. & Top 10 MerlotsWine & Spirits (1999 Vintage)
The Vineyards
Sourced from Columbia Valley vineyards in eastern Washington including our Cold Creek and Canoe Ridge Estate vineyards, as well as vineyards on the Wahluke Slope.
Columbia Valley vineyards lie in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains and receive just 6-8 inches of rainfall annually.
Warm, sunny days and cool evening temperatures create ideal conditions for intense aroma and flavor development in the ripening grapes.
Sandy soils with low fertility and low water-holding capacity enable precise control of vine growth.
