Drumheller Merlot 2017, Columbia Valley, Washington

Drumheller is named after the Drumheller channels in central Washington near Othello. The channels were carved out about 15,000 years ago by the Ice Age floods that sculpted much of what today is Washington’s Columbia Valley. Some of the grapes that go into Drumheller come from areas not too far from Drumheller channels, particularly the communities of Beverly and Othello. The wines of Drumheller are dramatic and distinct. The vineyards are located near Othello, Washington, on the periphery of the Columbia Valley. Due to the area’s flood deposits of quick-draining soil, the vines for Drumheller are forced to reach deep and grow strong. The Columbia Valley region’s fabled long, warm days, scant rain and cool evenings concentrate sugars and cause aroma and flavors to develop. The result is wines of impressive balance and character, and unlike their powerful cousins from the center of the valley, Drumheller wines are more delicate and restrained. This Merlot opens with aromas of blueberry, subtle spice and rose petals with hints of cocoa.