L'Ecole No. 41 Columbia Valley Merlot 2022

Drink now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant before serving. L’Ecole winery in Washington State has been named a Top 100 Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast magazine thanks to its elegant yet powerful wines which capture the authentic beauty of the Columbia and Walla Walla Valleys. Founded by Jean and Baker Ferguson in 1983, the estate is named after the old schoolhouse which was built by French-Canadian settlers in 1815 and today serves as the winery building. As well as growing their own grapes, L’Ecole has also been working closely with the same partner growers for over 35 years who provide them with top quality fruit from many of the region’s top vineyards. For this sublime Merlot, fruit is harvested by hand from several prized Columbia Valley vineyards, vinified, and then aged in small oak barrels for 18 months before bottling. Seductive dark plums, cassis, and crushed wild berries dominate on the nose, along with hints of woodsmoke, cedar, and kirsch. On the palate there’s a generous full body, firm tannins, and a solid core of black fruit which culminates in a long, balanced finish. The bold flavour profile makes this a great wine to match with hearty beef, game, or lamb dishes, although it can also be kept in the cellar for a few more years if desired.