This wine was in barrel when winemaker/co-owner Samantha Kent and her husband, Xander, were selected as the 2020 Washington Winery to Watch by the Great Northwest Wine staff. And they’ve recently rebranded as Alveare in tribute to Xander’s beekeeping across their Snoqualmie Valley estate. Their work with this Merlot began at historic Stillwater Creek Vineyard on the Royal Slope, and it displays the balance that the viticultural area is known for. Delightful aromas of fruit punch, bubble gum, banana and pomegranate transition to a stream of ripe cherries, chocolate, Jacobsen Salt Company’s buckwheat honey and a kiss of spice. Bright acidity balances the high-riding tannins, leading into a finish of red fruit. Qualifying award: Seattle Wine Awards (gold)
Rating: Platinum • 93 points
Production: 249 cases
Alcohol: 14.6%
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