Pepper Bridge Estate Vineyards Merlot 2013, Walla Walla Valley, Washington

“1999 marked the first production of our estate Merlot. With each vintage since, we are continually awed by the delicate intricacies our estate vineyards consistently bestow upon this beautiful Bordeaux varietal. ” 2013 vintage – 78% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc, 9% Malbec. Viticulture: 100% estate: Certified Sustainable & Salmon Safe. Appellation: 100% Walla Walla Valley. Oak Program: 17 months in French Oak: 38% new, 62% neutral. “Seductive aromas of red cherries, ripe black currant, violets and exotic spices mingle delicately with rich, melting dark chocolate. The mouthfeel is wonderfully plush with silky tannins, an appetite-encouraging level of acidity and impressively restrained minerality. Rich and concentrated, this expansive Merlot finishes with a smooth, refined elegance.” – from the Winery