Merlot
Tasting Notes
Our 2022 Merlot opens with pretty, concentrated aromas of wild fruit, dominated by ripe blackberry, blueberry, and wild cherry, which blend elegantly with nuanced hints of oak and a subtle overlay of toasted bread. On the palate, it is full-bodied and juicy, presenting an intense volume that fills the mouth with rich, lush fruit flavors. The texture is velvety yet lively, with well-integrated tannins that add structure without overwhelming. The finish is long and layered, revealing a minerality that brings complexity and a sense of place, mingling with lingering notes of wild mixed berries and a touch of earth.
Vineyards
Benton Hills Vineyards is in a premier wine region in southeastern Washington state, comprising several arid southwest sloping hills that are home to many of the Columbia valley’s most celebrated vineyards.
Ancient basalt flows formed a cluster of small mountains with gentle sloping hillsides ideal for growing vinifera grapes. We affectionately refer to them as our Benton Hills.
Winemaking
This Benton Hills Merlot features hand-selected fruit from our prized estate blocks. This warm vintage allowed extended hang time, achieving deep flavor complexity without sacrificing the grape’s natural varietal character. During fermentation, we pumped over the wine twice daily, carefully extracting balanced color, structure, and flavor. A completed malolactic fermentation on oak further refined and softened the wine, enhancing its smooth, elegant profile.
Technical Information
- Vintage:
- 2022
- Alcohol:
- 13.5%
- Region:
- Goose Gap, Columbia Valley, Washington
- PH:
- 3.86
- Varietals:
- 90% Merlot, 5% Malbec, 5% Syrah
- TA:
- 5.4G/L
Accolades
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