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2015 Merlot
Tasting Notes
Ripe Plum skin and black tea are front and center in 2015 Merlot, this warmer vintage, followed by undertones of tomato leaf and brambles. Generous dark fruit abounds on the palate with dense layers of black cherry and fig preceding notes of cracked pepper and fennel seed on the finish. Deep intensity and lush tannins make this a wine to enjoy now and savor for years to come.
The Year
The 2015 growing season is the latest in a trend of being the warmest on record for our valley. Bud break occurred at the end of March, which is about a week earlier than usual. High temperatures peaked at the end of June and were steady throughout the course of the summer. A cooling trend arrived as the grapes began to go through veraison, allowing them to ripen perfectly. For the first time ever, harvest began in August and was followed by optimal weather patterns for the remainder of the year.
Viticulture
Entirely estate; Certified Sustainable and Salmon Safe. Founding member of VINEA.
Wine Specifics
Varietals: 78% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 7% Malbec
Vineyards: 52% Seven Hills, 39% Pepper Bridge, 9% Octave
Awards & Accolades
“The 2015 Pepper Bridge Winery Merlot is an excellent bottling which was sourced from the Seven Hills Vineyard, Pepper Bridge Vineyard and Octave Vineyard. The Merlot has 14% Cabernet Franc and 7% Malbec blended in. This shows perfumed red fruits and toasty oak on the nose. The palate has a smooth texture and lovely mouthfeel. Lip-smacking acidity connects with red cherry cordial, black tea, and blackberry pie flavors. While this is rich this shows Bordelaise tension. Enjoy this delicious effort over the next decade.”
-Owen Bargreen, 92 points
