World renowned. Washington grown.
2002 Two Vines Merlot
The gold standard for $8 Merlot from anywhere in the world. -Wine Enthusiast
Tasting Notes
“This pleasing, intensely fruity wine is defined by aromas and flavors of blackberry and raspberry. Expressions of cocoa and spice round out the soft, velvety finish.” -Ray Einberger, Winemaker 
Growing Season
- The growing season began with cool weather that modestly delayed bud break and fruit set.
- Consistent and ideal weather conditions from mid-summer to early fall, with daytime to nighttime swings spanning as much as 40 degrees, were perfect for fruit maturation.
- Grape clusters were compact with large, fully mature berries.
- Fruit quality was excellent, marking the 5th consecutive quality vintage.
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
- Grapes were destemmed, crushed and inoculated to begin fermentation.
- Fermentation lasted six days on the skins, with a twice- daily pumpover regime.
- The wine aged 12 to 14 months in French (50%) and American (50%) oak barrels.
- Cabernet Franc (16%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (6%) contributed balance and softness to the final blend.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.56 g/100ml
- pH: 3.65
- Alcohol: 13.50%