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Winemakers:
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Alex Golitzin, Paul Golitzin, Marv Crum
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Varietals:
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80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
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Vineyards:
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Klipsun
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Barrels:
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100% New French Oak
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Time in Barrel:
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20 months
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Time in Bottle
before release:
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9 months
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Case Production:
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225
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Drink 2004 - 2020
Paul and Marv bottling
the 2000 vintage.
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The 1998 vintage had almost identical heat units as the
excellent 1994 vintage. There were no problems with severe
winter weather or spring frosts. The summer weather was
scorchingly hot at times, resulting in very ripe Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
The 1998 Merlot displays deep plum and black cherry fruit with nuances of Asian spice, smoke, dark chocolate and roasted herbs. The flavors are backed up by big, ripe tannins. The finish is long and firm. This wine should achieve its plateau of maturity in about five years and hold for at least 20 years from the vintage date, showing that from the right vineyards and with the right winemaking Washington can produce ageable Merlot that can rival the best from anywhere in the world.
1998 Merlot
"Deep ruby. Complex, vibrant aromas of blackberry, cassis,
minerals, cocoa powder and tar; conveys a strong torrefaction
character. Dense and layered; deeper and riper than the '97 version but the
wine's sweetness is subtle and restrained. Boasts excellent backbone for
aging. Finishes firm and long, with a late flavor of dark chocolate. Should
make a superb merlot."
Score: 90-92 Barrel Sample
Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar