World renowned. Washington grown.

2006 Two Vines Merlot-Cabernet

Tasting Notes
“Aromas of raspberry, black cherry and blackberry unfold from the glass and carry through the palate. This is a luscious expressive wine with a supple mouthfeel and soft finish.”
- Ray Einberger, Winemaker

Growing Season

• The 2006 growing season was marked by extreme weather patterns. Spring was wet and cooler than normal, followed by a long, dry and hot summer.
• These factors contributed to excellent acid levels in the grapes, balanced canopies and small berries.
• The warmer parts of the Horse Heaven Hills and Wahluke Slope saw early ripening and bold flavors from the high temperatures.
• In cooler growing areas, later ripening prompted good acidity and flavor in white varietals, as well as good color, pronounced fruit flavors, and smooth tannins in reds.

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 irrigated.
• 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 7-10 days on the skins.
• The wine underwent malolactic fermentation in a combination of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels.
• The wine then aged in older French and American oak barrels for 10-11 months, depending on the lot.
• The final blend features the expressions of three varietals: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc.

 

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