Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot 2020 (USA)

Description

Cherry, Oak, Toffee

"5 stars! Fab and generous. Soft and ripe, with sweet dark berry fruit and stewed plum, Christmas cake, dark chocolate and savoury umami mushroom. Smooth, lengthy finish" Phil Parker

"The 2020 Merlot Grand Estates is darkly floral and earthy with hints of animal musk and crushed blackberries. This washes across the palate with juicy acids that enliven its tart wild berry fruits. It leaves a mark of minerality along with a chewy blueberry skin concentration and hints of mocha. This is an excellent entry to the "value category" of Washington State Merlot" Vinous

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.