Tasting Notes:Aromas of raspberry, black cherry and blackberry unfold from the glass andcarry through the palate. This is a luscious expressive wine with a supplemouthfeel and soft finish.- Ray Einberger, Winemaker.VinificationGrowing SeasonThe 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. 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.
Region Description
The Columbia Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) is the largest in the state of Washington.It includes the Yakima Valley, Red Mountain, Walla Walla, and Horse Heaven Hill AVAs within its boundaries.
