L'Ecole N° 41 Merlot Heritage

A Merlot from the Walla Walla Valley that shows the powerful, structured side of the American Northwest – with enough depth for the cellar and enough charm for immediate enjoyment.

L'Ecole N° 41 is one of the pioneers of the Walla Walla Valley in Washington State. The winery has been housed in the former Frenchtown schoolhouse since 1983 – hence the name. The conviction: wines that reflect the character of the site, not that of the winemaker. The Heritage line uses grapes from long-cultivated plots in the Columbia Valley and Walla Walla Valley, where continental climate – hot days, cool nights – ensures ripe fruit while maintaining acid structure.

In the glass, the Merlot shows dark plum and black cherry, underlaid by tobacco, cedar wood, and a hint of dried rose. The palate is full-bodied with soft, ripe tannins, a pleasant coffee-chocolate note in the middle finish, and good length. Not a heavy, over-extracted blockbuster – rather a balanced red wine with real drinking pleasure.

• Temperature: 16–18 °C
• Goes well with: braised lamb, beef brisket, mushroom risotto, or aged cheddar