2020 Merlot

Merlot is the hidden gem of Washington winemaking.  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.

2020 Obelisco Estate Merlot

Blend: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon

AVA: Red Mountain

Vineyards: 100% Obelisco Estate

Bottling: 246 cases 750ml 

Alcohol: 15.7% vol.

Barrels: 36% new oak, 100% French

Tasting Notes: The 2020 Merlot has fruit aromas of blueberry, plum, and raspberry along with hints of violets. On the palate, subtle backing spice and espresso aromas are revealed. The texture is opulent and silky at first, but abundant tannin 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: The fruit for this wine comes from Obelisco Vineyard on Red Mountain. The densely planted vineyard produces low crop per vine and small berries which promote intense flavors and excellent concentration. The cool fermentation temperatures and long oak maturation help to mellow the abundant natural tannin found in Red Mountain wines.

Harvest notes: 2020 was a warm year in the vineyard, but early fruit set led to a long growing season and excellent hang time. Yields were high in the early part of the season allowing us to thin the crop keeping only the best clusters to fully ripen through the summer months. The sugars and flavors developed evenly and the prototypical cool Autumn evenings on Red Mountain allowed the grapes to retain their natural acidity and freshness. These conditions allowed us to pick the grapes at the perfect moment leading to wines with wonderful concentration and fully ripe fruit flavors.