World renowned. Washington grown.
2005 Grand Estates Riesling
Tasting Notes
“ Classic varietal aromatics of kiwi, apricot, and spice lead to intense flavors of fruit and an exotic balance on the palate, exiting with a crisp, enticing finish.”-Ray Einberger, Winemaker
Growing Season
- August 15 marked the beginning of the earliest harvest on record.
- Warm summer months contributed to the uniformity of berry maturation.
- A temperature drop in late summer cooled the vineyards and allowed the grapes extra hang time to enhance flavor and aromatic development.
- Moderate weather conditions during harvest contributed to mature fruit with intense flavors, good sugar development, and high natural acidity across varietals.
Vineyards
- Select Columbia Valley vineyards are used to produce Grand Estates Riesling. 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
- At pressing, the juice 100% cold settled for two days with enzymes to settle solids.
- The juice was inoculated with Steinberger and other yeasts to initiate the 20-30 day fermentation.
- Cool temperatures throughout the winemaking process enhanced the naturally clean, floral character and crisp acidity.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.71 g/100ml
- pH: 3.12
- Alcohol: 12.5%
- Sugar: 2.57g/100ml