2021 Merlot, Bacchus Vineyard

The vintage of 2021 was the first of its kind. It started out as a relatively warm growing season, resulting in an early bud break. The season was moving along with nothing unusual until the end of June, when a heat dome settled in on Washington and Oregon. Temperatures reaching 118°F in some locations, and 115°F on the west side of the Cascade mountains, were unheard of and stifling. In general, when temperatures continue to climb above 100°F, the vines will slow their development to conserve water and energy. Because the vines were further along in their growth cycle when the heat set in, berry and cluster sizes were smaller than usual. While this resulted in a smaller crop, flavor was abundant.

Those who have followed us for a long time know that we have a special fondness for Merlot. It is a versatile and generous wine that deserves more appreciation than it receives and we love it! It is also the varietal that brought us to Washington.

Each vintage, I look forward to the aromas of blackberry pie when the Merlot goes into the press. Sweet dark blackberry, marionberry, and bing cherry, combine with vanilla, mocha, and a hint of graham. It is a bright, fresh wine, with a touch of tobacco that finishes long, rich, and luxurious with delicate, fine-grained tannins. John Abbott, Winemaker