World renowned. Washington grown.
2001 Two Vines Merlot-Cabernet
Tasting Notes
“This wine is layered with generous blackberry, black cherry and raspberry aromas and flavors. This fruit-forward style offers a supple mouthfeel that lingers in a satisfying, rich finish.” -Ray Einberger, Winemaker
Growing Season
- Bud break occurred in mid-April, approximately one week later than a typical year.
- The vines thrived during excellent growing conditions in May and early June, and bloom occurred on time (mid-June).
- Above normal temperatures in July and August advanced ripening, and ideal temperatures in September and October (70s to 80s during the day; 40s to 50s during the night) allowed for excellent hang time and flavor maturity.
Vineyards
- Columbia Valley vineyards are seated east of the Cascade Mountain range. Up to 14,000 feet high, the mountains effectively block eastward-moving wet weather systems from the Pacific Ocean.
- Just 6 to 8 inches of rainfall reach the growing region annually. Vineyards are 100% drip irrigation.
- The soils have low fertility and low water-holding capacity, allowing precise control of vine growth patterns.
- Vines are planted north to south on south and southeast facing slopes.
Vinification
- Individual lots were harvested and held separately for vinification.
- Grapes fermented on the skins for five days.
- Twelve months aging in older French and American oak barrels maintained the bright fruit characteristics and introduced subtle oak complexity.
- The master blend features plush expression of three varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.58 g/100ml
- pH: 3.59
- Alcohol: 13.50%