- 91
- points / "Smart Buy"
- Wine Spectator
- Blend
- 92% Merlot
5% Cabernet Sauvignon
3% Cabernet Franc
A "kiss" of Syrah - Total Acidity
- 0.56 g/100ml
- pH
- 3.70
- Alcohol
- 14.5%
- Barrel Aging
- French & American oak (14-18 months)
33% new, 67% older
2007 vintage
2008 Horse Heaven HillsMerlot
“The H3 Merlot entices the nose with aromas of blueberry, cassis and hints of tobacco and spice aromas. The silky and sweet mid-palate introduces slight dusty, earthy, and rich berry notes which cumulate in the long and concentrated finish.” Ray Einberger, Winemaker
A perfect growing season with full crop yields and restrained sugar levels led to outstanding wines from Washington state’s vineyards in 2008.
Harvest began 10 days later than normal due to cool spring weather and a moderate summer. Hot weather in August provided ideal ripening conditions for grapes across all varietals and harvest was quickly ramped up in order to obtain fruit at the optimum ripeness.
Grapes were crushed at 30% whole-berry to retain the fruit quality.
Fermentation lasted 7-14 days on the skins to extract optimum fruit and\ structural components.
Various yeasts were used to maintain fruit flavors and complexity.
