2018 Vintage Summary
Washington experienced a warm start to the 2018 growing season, and at one point, some were expecting it to be one of the hottest on record as the summer months brought consistently high temperatures not ever seen before.
After a rainstorm rolled through over Labor Day weekend, temperatures cooled in September and extended into the harvest season, providing extended hang time for rich color and vibrant flavors. In the end, the crop was larger than expected with the quality being very high. The vintage overall produced wines with big fruit and balanced structure.
Vinification
After harvest, the grapes (65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon) for our 2018 Red Blend were destemmed and allowed to cold soak. Throughout fermentation, we performed several rack and returns for optimal extraction of color and flavor. A touch of oak aging provided distinct brown spice notes.
Harvest Date
September 30th – October 12th, 2018
Tasting Notes
Full-bodied and complex offering aromas of plum, black currant, dark chocolate, and a hint of espresso. The mouthfeel is big with vanilla, cocoa, black cherry, and fine grain tannins leading into a fresh, and balanced finish.
Brix: 24.8-25
Alc: 14.2%
pH: 3.82TA: 5.2 g/L