Merlot traditionally provides the fleshy foundation for this blend, and it easily assumed that role in 2007.  The quality of Merlot in 2007 almost had us bottling a varietal Merlot!  Ultimately we decided to let its typical richness set the stage for small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot to add their subtle complexity. 

The result is a big volume Clos, from its glass-coating appearance to its length on the finish.  Deep black cherry, plum and exotic spice aromas lead to a rich, ripe and lush mouthfeel.  But this is no fruit salad; it’s an integrated, well-knit wine, filled with deep red notes and added depth coming from an increased quantity of remarkable Red Mountain grapes.  Fruit from our Horse Heaven and Yakima Valley vineyards added hints of cola, chocolate and minerals enhancing the final blend.

Blending Detail and Aging Profile

Blending Detail:

• 62% Merlot
• 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
• 10% Malbec
• 5% Cabernet Franc
• 3% Petit Verdot

AVA & Vineyard Detail:

• 39% Red Mountain
• 33% Horse Heaven Hills
• 28% Yakima Valley

Acclaim

Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate:

“… an alluring bouquet of spice box, violets, incense, black currant, and blackberry. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it displays an elegant personality along with considerable complexity. Expressive black fruits mingle with earth and spice notes, plenty of ripe, fine-grained tannin, and a lengthy finish.  94 points”

Steven Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar: 

“… Black raspberry and licorice…  Large-scaled and mouth-filling but with superb floral lift and an added element of density and structure from the petit verdot component… terrific verve and energy for aging.  93(+?)”