This Merlot is a powerhouse of opaque density, showing a black crimson core and an opulent, full-bodied frame. The nose is a complex tapestry of strawberry jam and pomegranate woven with crushed graphite, cigar box, and sweet incense. On the palate, velvety and fine-grained tannins lead to indulgent layers of macerated black cherries, salted dark chocolate, and cold brew coffee shine. Savory notes of steak juice and stout add a brooding depth, leading to an exceedingly long finish of dark plum and pipe tobacco.
Buy Now $135Labeled Appellation
Varietal(s)
75% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc
Vinification
Fermented for 14 days in 100% new French oak. The must was left on skins for 30 days of extended maceration. Aged 23 Months in 100% new French oak.
Alcohol
14.8%
Cases Produced
400
Vintage Notes
The 2023 Matthews Reserve Merlot is sourced from a collection of AVA’s across the Columbia Valley, including Royal Slope, Red Mountain, and Horse Heaven Hills. Vineyard sites such as Solaksen, Scarline, Two of Us, Spice Cabinet, Milt’s, and Wallula Gap contribute to a wine that reflects the depth and diversity of Merlot from across the Columbia Valley.
Following a series of challenging vintages starting with early frost in 2019, smoke in 2020, record heat in 2021, and a cool, late 2022 season, this wine was shaped by patience and precision. That broader context continued into 2023, which marked a return to balance and consistency, with Royal Slope Merlot showing exceptional concentration, dark fruit character, and structure. In this vintage, small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc were used to support the wine, creating an expression reminiscent of a warm year in Saint-Émilion.
The 2023 vintage stands on its own with both richness and balance. Yields were intentionally restricted to produce small, concentrated berries, while cool fall nights preserved freshness. Fruit was hand harvested from mid October through early November.
At the winery, the fruit was de-stemmed and berry sorted, with nearly 30% saignéed to enhance concentration. Fermentation lasted approximately 14 days, followed by 30 days of extended maceration to build structure and texture. The wine was then aged for 23 months in 100% new French oak before a final selection of just 16 barrels, yielding 400 cases. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, the wine retains its full purity and intensity.
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