2018Reserve Merlot

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2018Reserve Merlot

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The 2018 Matthews Reserve Merlot was crafted from small vineyard parcels within the Royal Slope, Red Mountain, Walla Walla Valley, and Columbia Valley AVAs. Farmed using sustainable practices, the vines were limited to one or two clusters per shoot to create maximum concentration in each cluster. The grapes were hand-harvested in the early mornings between September 12th and October 19th, 2018.

Tasting Notes

Deep in color with aromatics of ripe raspberry, plum skin, currants, dried strawberry, herbs, caramelized sugar, and fresh roasted coffee. Great volume on the palate, with notes of fresh red fruits and incredibly tactile tannins. A wine with versatility and texture that only Washington State could produce.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Braised lamb with roasted potatoes

Varietal Composition

90% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon

Alcohol

14.4%

Cases Produced

341

Drinkability

Now-2034

Trade materials

Tech Sheet Bottle Shot Pairing Recipe

Awards & Accolades

"The 2018 Merlot Reserve was sourced from the four separate AVAs and blends 90% Merlot with small portions of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Voluptuous and soft in the mouth, it shows off black tea, exotic spices and blackberry compote flavors alongside suggestions of tar. Dense and full-bodied with a silky texture, this delicious offering will cellar well for another 15 years."

92 points, Owen Bargreen, Vinous

AVAs

Red Mountain

Designated: 2001Vineyards: 2,382 acres (963 hectares)Top Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet FrancAverage Annual Precipitation: 5 inchesSoil: Silt, sand, volcanic basaltAverage vine age: 22yrs

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Royal Slope

Designated: 2020Vineyards: 1,900 acres (768 hectares)Top Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon BlancAverage Annual Precipitation: 6-8 inchesSoil: Sandy loam, soilAverage Vine Age: 14yrs