Russell Merlot 2023

This Merlot named after co-owner John Russell and his family, this Merlot blend is made from 98% Merlot grapes that were cultivated in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA of Washington. Fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks for two weeks, with pump-overs conducted twice daily to ensure full extraction of color and tannin. After both yeast and malolactic fermentation, the wine was pressed, settled, and then transferred into 25% new oak barrels American and French oak barrels for 18 months of aging.

Food Pairing: Pair this wine with steaks, roasted chicken, pork loin, lamb, blue cheeses, or tomato-based recipes.

Sensory Notes:
Style: Age-worthy, full-bodied Merlot
Sweetness: dry
Color: dark ruby
Aroma: plum, cedar, and wild blackberry
Flavor: black cherry, cacao, and warm baking spice

Technical Data:
Alcohol: 14.3 ABV
Residual Sugar: .13g/L (less than 1 gram of sugar per bottle)