Item Number: 6687 UPC: 0721354890030

Country: USA
Region: Washington Sub Region: Columbia Valley
Appellation/AVA: Columbia Valley
Vintage: 2010
Grape(s): 82% Merlot / 8% Cabernet Sauvignon / 7% Cabernet Franc
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750ml Pack: 12
Closure: Cork
Case Production: 4,020
Alc by Vol(%): 14.5
Total Acidity: 6.4
pH: 3.6
Vineyard Sources: Estate Seven Hills, Bacchus & Dionysus, Stone Tree, Candy Mountain, Klipsun, Weinbau, Estate Ferguson, and Pepper Bridge

Vintage Notes: 2010 was one of the coolest growing years in Washington State in memorable history. While this presented many challenges, in the end it proved to be one of the most promising vintages in a decade. A cool and wet spring set the stage for a later than normal bud break with a light set during bloom in June. In July lower than normal berry weight growth contributed to significantly lower yields. Veraison was delayed, right in line with the cool 1999 growing season, one of Washington’s star vintages. A prolonged and welcome Indian summer delivered higher than normal temperatures and sunshine during all of October. Higher natural acidity, longer hang-time and concentrated fruit from low yields resulted in brilliant color, flavor intensity and overall balance.

Winemaking Notes: Each lot was hand harvested ripe and gently crushed into 1.5 and 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 100% small oak barrels, 30% new, with four rackings over 18 months.

Tasting Notes: L’Ecole is recognized as one of Washington State’s top producers of premium Merlot and this wine delivers with great structure, color and balanced acidity. Layered with enticing aromas of plum, clove and notes of violet, this full-bodied Merlot shows a robust core of cherry, blackberry and cola on a seamless finish of fine-grained, yet firm tannins.