Few drive as many miles throughout the Columbia Valley as Victor Palencia, who makes wine on the Wahluke Slope and in the Walla Walla Valley, but he draws from Frenchman Hills Vineyard near the Royal Slope for this expressive Merlot under his entry tier. It spent 14 months in French oak and releases aromas of cassis, red cherry, vanilla and pink peppercorns and toast. The delivery includes bright flavors of sweet raspberry and boysenberry, which lead to complex notes of earthiness and prominent tannins. On the rewarding finish, there are Bing cherries and chocolate. Palencia pairs this steak, lamb or truffle popcorn.
Rating: Recommended
Production: 250 cases
Alcohol: 14.9%
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