Hudson’s Bay Company set up Fort Vancouver in 1824, and grape seeds from England established the first vineyard for wine in what is now Washington state. About a mile to the west of that historic settlement is Burnt Bridge Cellars in downtown Vancouver. Merlot from a pair of McKibben-farmed vineyards – Seven Hills and Les Collines – made its way downstream from the Walla Walla Valley into the hands of founding winemaker David Smith. Ben Stuart took over in 2015 as Smith returned to oncology research, yet the transition seems seamless. Wide-ranging aromas of Almond Roca, black currant and blackberry include touches of freesia and oregano. Sandy bittersweet chocolate tannins gather up sweet flavors of black cherry and boysenberry, capped by a hint of chamomile tea, boysenberry acidity and almond paste. It’s about as smooth and medium-bodied Merlot as you’ll find from the Northwest.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 170 cases
Alcohol: 15.5%
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