Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot 2018 (USA)

Description

Cherry, Oak, Toffee

"Black cherry, plum, sandalwood, toffee and sweet tobacco on the nose. It’s full-bodied with firm, tight tannins. Rich and dark with toasty, smoky character. Drink or hold" James Suckling, Jamessuckling.com

This Merlot has a rich aromatic profile with notes of chocolate and dark cherries. The complex fruit flavors are followed by a smooth, velvety finish.

Fruit was sourced from premier vineyard sites throughout the Columbia Valley, including the Horse Heaven Hills (for texture and body) and the Wahluke Slope (for aromatics and complexity). Columbia Valley vineyards are seated in Eastern Washington. This region is mostly dry with less precipitation due to the rain shadow effect from the surrounding Cascade Mountain range. Vineyards are 100% drip irrigation. This, combined with the low water-holding capacity of the soil, allow for precise control of the vines.

Grapes were crushed and then fermented for 6-10 days on skins to extract optimum fruit and textural components. Malolactic fermentation occurred in a combination of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels. The wine aged predominately in both French and American oak barrels, 40% new, for approximately 17 months. A small percentage of the wine aged in stainless steel to retain freshness of fruit and varietal character.

Food Pairing: Pair this wine with blue cheese, duck, beef, veal and dark chocolate.