Seven Hills, Founding Vineyard Merlot, Walla Wall Valley, Washington, USA 2021

Entirely sourced from one block of Merlot that predates the Walla Walla AVA, they are among the region's oldest vines. The 21-acre founding vineyard was planted in 1982 to own-rooted Merlot, less than a hectare, by Seven Hills founder Casey McLellan. Aged in 50% new French oak, this wine offers plenty of refined oak-driven spice. Notes of espresso bean and cocoa nibs accent complementary blue fruits. The palate shows smoky clove and spice, with oak elements of Madagascar vanilla bean.