2021 Merlot
This is our newest release! Stop by our tasting room to try it for yourself, or add it to your cart to enjoy its big, bold structure from your own couch.
2021 Obelisco Estate Merlot
Blend: 80% Merlot, 10% Malbec, 10% Syrah
AVA: Red Mountain
Vineyards: 90% Obelisco, 10% Red Heaven
Bottling: 235 cases, 750 ml
Alcohol: 15.6%
Aging: 42% new oak; 100% French
Tasting Notes: Merlot is one of Washington’s signature varietals. It is unique in comparison to Merlot from other parts of the world with a bigger, bolder structure and intense concentration. It is also perfectly suited for being grown in the Columbia Valley with our warm days and cool autumn nights. The 2021 Merlot has fruit aromas of blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry along with hints of violets. On the palate, the oak contributes subtle backing spice and espresso aromas. The texture is opulent and velvety, but Merlot’s natural structure helps to keep the wine tight and focused.
Cellaring: Washington State Merlot is drinkable now, showing youthful red fruit and a fine grain texture. If you enjoy aging your wine, the natural acidity and bountiful tannin structure of this Merlot will allow it to age gracefully for 15-18 years.
Production: A majority of the fruit for this wine comes from Obelisco Vineyard on Red Mountain with the Syrah coming from a vineyard just down the street named Red Heaven. The grapes were hand-picked and fermented slowly over 3 weeks to gently develop flavor and build structure. The cool fermentation temperatures and long oak maturation help to mellow the abundant natural tannin found in Red Mountain wines.
Harvest Notes: 2021 was a warm year in Washington State. The heat dome that occurred in June reduced berry size and cluster size producing wines with amazing intensity. The vines managed the heat stress well and the grapes ripened evenly, and sugars and flavors developed in balance. In typical fashion, September and October were cool, allowing the grapes to retain acidity and freshness. The 2021 wines show classic Washington ripeness matched with elegance and brightness.
