2014 Cuvee Arlette
Cuvée Arlette is a dark and luxurious blend of MERLOT, CABERNET FRANC, CABERNET SAUVIGNON, and PETIT VERDOT, sourced from the Columbia Valley. Its depth and complexity echoes aromatics of raspberry, black currants, cocoa and caramel, with hints of spiciness and minerality. The tannin structure is focused and elegant. Pair with robust meat dishes such as beef, pork or lamb glazed with a reduction of the wine itself, or with shallots, butter, and thyme.
The grapes were harvested separately, bunch sorted, de-stemmed and transferred to 1 ton fermenters. Approximately 50% of the berries were left whole and uncrushed. After fermentation, the must was drained of free run juice and the skins were lightly pressed. The wine continued its alcoholic fermentation in French oak until it was dry and then proceeded through Malolactic conversion prior to being racked and returned to barrel. It was left to mature undisturbed for 18 months before being blended and bottled.
