World renowned. Washington grown.
1999 Reserve Merlot
Tasting Notes
“Fruit intensity shines throughout this dense, substantial Merlot. Ample, mouth-coating tannins are balanced by juicy, full-flavored cherry and blueberry. A powerful, serious Merlot with a long, lingering finish.” -Doug Gore, Winemaker
Growing Season
- Mild winter temperatures preceded a typical mid-March bud break.
- An atypical cool, cloudy weather pattern held from mid-April through July resulting in lighter fruit set and lower grape cluster weights.
- Mid-August temperatures warmed and a pattern of warm, cloud-free days continued through October. The disparity between daytime and nighttime temperatures during this time-as much as 40º F-delayed harvest by a couple of weeks and allowed additional time for flavors to mature.
Vineyards
- Premier Merlot vineyards located on the Wahluke Slope (54%), offering balance and structure for aging, and on the Horse Heaven Hills (46%), introducing ripe fruit and fine tannins, are selected for the Reserve program.
- Warm daytime temperature during summer months and cooler temperatures during the ripening season concentrate aromatics and enhance complexity.
- Low rainfall stresses the vines, and irrigation is applied judiciously to create concentrated varietal expression.
Winemaking
- Each vineyard source was harvested and held separately for vinification.
- Fermentation on the skins for seven days was followed by malolactic fermentation in the barrel, 100% new French oak.
- The wine aged for 22 months with barrel-to-barrel racking at three month intervals.
- Just 10% of the wine designated for the Reserve program was selected for the final blend.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.62 g/100ml
- pH: 3.50
- Alcohol: 13.9%
Food Pairings
Beef, lamb, grilled salmon, hearty pastas