Washington Hills Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2000

The Wine Very dark in color; wild blackberry jam and cedar spice rise when the glass is swirled. A full rich texture satisfies the palate with bright fruit flavors and modest tannins. Needs a little time but this could evolve into my favorite Cabernet Merlot yet. The Grapes Always a fun task, the blending of the 1999 Cabernet Merlot came together with a little magic in June of 2000. The final blend was 71% Columbia Valley and 29% Yakima Valley,60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. The Appellation The Columbia Valley appellation recognizes an area of the Columbia Basin stretching from The Dalles, Oregon, north through Washington to Lake Roosevelt and east to the Idaho border. The area is characterized by low rainfall, long daylight hours during growing season and sandy soils.