Fall Favorites
JOSH'S NOTES - 2023 Cabernet Franc
This hails from two of my favorite areas, the Rocks District, and our Schafer Vineyard in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. This is a Cabernet Franc nerd’s type of wine with leafy green edges, blue fruit, and fresh rose petals shining through. The wine itself is pillowy soft, has great acidity in spite of the warm vintage, and finishes with fine grained tannins and the perfect amount of French oak. Enjoy now over the next 10-15 years!
APPELLATION
Walla Walla Valley
BLEND PROFILE
100% Cabernet Franc
BARREL/AGING PROGRAM
22 months in 50% new French oak and 50% neutral French oak barrels
JOSH'S NOTES - 2023 Merlot
The new 2023 Merlot comes from two vineyards right next to each other. Flying B, the estate around Doubleback, sees very hot temperatures during the daytime, and huge temperature swings at night- more than any of our estates in Walla Walla. JKM, an older vineyard across from Doubleback and formerly owned by Josh and Kim McDaniels, is similar but sits over an ancient riverbed of rolled cobblestones. The vines struggle because of these factors and are allowed a reprieve in the evenings. Tons of cherry, cassis, subtle hints of sexy French oak. The mouthfeel is so pleasing, suavé, glycerol, and has more beautiful cherry components. Enjoy now and drink over the next 10- 15 years!
APPELLATION
Walla Walla Valley
BLEND PROFILE
100% Merlot
BARREL/AGING PROGRAM
22 months in 75% new French oak and 25% neutral French oak barrels
JOSH'S NOTES - 2023 Malbec
I have loved Malbec since even before I spent the 2010 vintage in Mendoza, Argentina. This new vintage is all estate grown from Bob Healy and Lefore vineyards. Fresh cut flowers, pie crust, a slight herbal tinge, and evolving as it opens up. The mouthfeel is beautifully soft, has a glycerol sweetness, and very pleasurable with a chewy finish. Drink now through 2035-2040!
APPELLATION
Walla Walla Valley
BLEND PROFILE
100% Malbec
BARREL/AGING PROGRAM
22 months in 50% new French Oak and 50% neutral French oak barrels