Chateau Ste. Michelle Artist Series Meritage (3 Bottle Pack) 1997
Bordeaux Red Blends
from Columbia Valley, Washington
winemaker's notes:
Tasting Note: Complex black cherry, cassis, cedar and coffee aromas. Elegant cherry, blackberry and spice complemented by soft tannins. A wine of power, elegance and complexity that shows balance and structure.
Blend: 49% cabernet sauvignon, 49% merlot, 2% cabernet franc
Vintage: After a cool spring, the Columbia Valley enjoyed a warm, dry summer. Moderating temperatures in September slowed ripening and gave the grapes extra time on the vine to fully mature so that when it came time to pick in late September, the grapes were rich and flavorful.
Vinification: Just over 100 lots carefully selected in the vineyard, then tended in the cellar for 18 months in new and one-year-old French oak were the chosen for 1997 Artist Series. Though all outstanding wines, only five lots were selected for the final blend to create a perfectly balanced wine with a bold impression.
