2016 Canoe Ridge Vineyard Merlot

WINEMAKER’S NOTES

Planted on a steep desert ridge overlooking the Columbia River, this site sees extremes. Very cold winters and hot, windy summers cause the vines to have small canopies, exposing the grapes to the sun. Canoe Ridge was said to be named by explorers Lewis and Clark on their 1805 expedition when someone mentioned the ridge looks like an upturned canoe.

The nose is bright with notes of red rose, Bing cherry, vanilla, and dusty bramble. The palate is vibrant with grippy tannin and lots of length. Planted more than 25 years ago, the fruit from these vines reflect the intense growing conditions at this historical site.

VINTAGE OVERVIEW 

The 2016 growing season was moderately warm and dry, which allowed for a long hang time, creating complex flavors in the resulting wines.