L’Ecole No. 41 Estate Merlot 2021, Walla Walla Valley, Washington

L’Ecole N° 41 is recognized as one of Washington State’s top producers of premium Merlot and this estate vineyard blend represents our best. The elegance and old world structure of Seven Hills Vineyard adds complexity to the earthiness and minerality of the basalt soil from Ferguson. “40 years of meticulous vineyard management and winemaking experience are fundamental to the quality of the wines and reputation for excellence. We are engaged in growing and making 100% of our wines.” Each lot was hand harvested ripe and gently crushed into 1.5 ton stainless steel fermenters. Gentle handling of the fruit through hand punch downs and gravity assisted movements were utilized throughout the entire winemaking process. The wine was cleanly racked to small French oak barrels, 30% new, with four rackings over 18 months. “This expressive Merlot reveals brooding aromatics of Bing cherry, fresh blackberry, cinnamon, savory cedar, and espresso completed with rose petals and a touch of sage. Its concentrated texture is laced with basalt-driven minerality, and notes of graphite, cocoa, and spice that are complemented by refined tannins leading to a fresh and focused finish. 82% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon.