L'Ecole No. 41 Estate Merlot 2022 750ml

Product Info

Terroir
Sourced from estate vineyards in Washington’s Walla Walla Valley, this Merlot reflects one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier growing regions for Bordeaux varieties. Warm, sunny days encourage full ripening, while cool evenings preserve acidity and aromatic freshness. The valley’s well-drained loess and gravelly soils help produce fruit with both concentration and elegance, resulting in wines that balance richness with structure and finesse.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
Crafted primarily from estate-grown fruit, this Merlot is produced with an emphasis on vineyard expression, balance, and age-worthiness. Fermentation is managed to preserve varietal character and texture, followed by aging in French oak barrels that add complexity and structure without overshadowing the fruit. The winemaking style favors refinement and precision over excess, showcasing the depth and versatility of Walla Walla Valley Merlot.

Tasting Notes
Deep ruby in the glass, the 2022 opens with aromas of black cherry, plum, blackberry, and violet layered with notes of cocoa, cedar, and baking spice. The palate is rich yet polished, delivering concentrated dark fruit framed by supple tannins and vibrant acidity. Hints of espresso, dark chocolate, and savory herbs emerge through the mid-palate, leading to a long, balanced finish marked by depth, freshness, and elegance.

Food Pairing & Service
A versatile and food-friendly Merlot, this wine pairs beautifully with grilled steak, roast chicken, braised short ribs, mushroom dishes, and aged cheeses. Its balance of fruit and structure also makes it an excellent match for hearty pasta dishes and roasted vegetables. Serve slightly below room temperature, and consider a brief decant to allow its aromatics to fully unfold.

Cellaring Potential
Approachable upon release yet built for development, this Merlot will continue to evolve gracefully over the next 8–12 years. With age, its vibrant fruit profile will integrate into more complex notes of leather, cedar, dried herbs, and spice while maintaining its hallmark balance and freshness.