Marty Clubb and his teams in the vineyard and the cellar present a prime example of a Washington Merlot that’s also a reflection of the young and already historic Ferguson Vineyard on the Oregon side of the Walla Walla Valley. It’s a 50/50 blend of Ferguson and venerable Seven Hills, and the Ferguson influence is immediate with crushed rock elements in the nose from the vines that finger into fractured basalt. Thankfully, there’s minimal oak influence to distract from that terroir, the gobs of purple fruit and the orange oil notes. It’s big, but nicely balance, juicy and rather delicious with many years ahead.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 1,080 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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