What we’re drinking: Mercer Estates Merlot
August 31st, 2011 by brynn grimleyBrynn writes:
The first time I had a Mercer Estates Merlot was last Thanksgiving. It was one of the two reds I bought to pair with our turkey and stuffing, and it ended up being my favorite wine of the night.
I was reminded of my enjoyment of this wine recently at the Kitsap Wine Festival, where Mercer Estates was represented pouring its 2009 Pinot Gris, 2009 Sauvignon Blanc, 2008 Merlot and 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon. (Side note, I also really enjoyed Mercer’s Pinot Gris after trying it at the festival).
I preferred the Merlot to the Cab, probably because of the vanilla notes and full body of the wine. Even in the sweltering heat the wine was delicious. I also had a chance to learn the history of the winery, which is run from a partnership of two of Washington’s oldest winemaking families: Mercer and Hogue.
The winery is located in Prosser and its grapes come from three AVAs, Columbia Valley, Yakima Valley and Horse Heaven Hills.
The Merlot received a Silver medal from the 2011 Seattle Wine Awards and a Silver from the 2011 Dallas Morning News Wine Competition.
Here’s what winemaker David Forsyth has to say about the wine:
Pronounced aromas of cherry, kirshwasser and cassis are completed with hints of cocoa, vanilla and allspice. In the mouth, spiced berry fruit plays a dominate role in a full-bodied, broad and structured style, finishing with moderate tannins and ripe savory overtones.
Drink now through 2017; 3,232 cases made.
Tags: Mercer Estates
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