H3 Horse Heaven Hills Merlot

The Merlot grapes for H3 Horse Heaven Hills are harvested at the end of September and immediately brought to the winery. Winemaker Juan Munoz-Oca leaves approximately 30% of the grapes whole, while the remainder are gently crushed. All the harvested grapes are then fermented on the skins for about seven to fourteen days. The wines then undergo malolactic fermentation (in stainless steel tanks and oak barrels), are blended, and finally mature for 14 to 18 months in new (33%) and used (67%) American and French oak barrels. Soil: low-fertility, but well-drained sandy soils with low water retention, allowing for precise growth control. Warm cherry red with a purplish sheen. Aroma: aromatic bouquet of ripe blackberries and spices. Taste: on the palate, the Horse Heaven Hills Merlot also reveals its lush berry fruit, subtly underpinned with slightly smoky notes, velvety smooth in the finish, very juicy and extremely seductive with fine hints of dark cocoa.