Washington Hills Merlot 2000

The Wine Dense burgundy in color, cherries and blackberries dominate the nose with additional notes of cedar and green pepper. The flavors integrate on the palate, emphasizing bright fruit and a smooth clean finish. The Grapes Merlot from three separate vineyards in three distinct areas, Yakima Valley, Mattawa and Pasco; together with three varieties, contributed to a wine of great complexity and interest. The final blend was 84% Merlot, 12% Cabernet and 4% Cabernet Franc. 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 the growing season and sandy loam soil.