Merlot

2009 Merlot

Bronze Medal - 2011 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Bronze Medal – 2011 Portland Seafood & Wine Competition
Bronze Medal – 2011 Seattle Wine Awards

Platinum Award - Wine Press NW, 2010
"The Fries family owns large wineries and vineyards in Oregon and Washington. In this case, the Oregon winery is using its Washington fruit. This superb and affordable wine offers aromas of chocolate, NECCO wafer and inviting berries, followed by deep flavors that coat the palate with cherries and chocolate."
Gold Medal - 2010 Washington State Wine Competition
Recommended – Northwest Palate, May/June 2010

“Hefty aromas of roasted meat and dried herbs compete somewhat with notes of plump blackberries. Medium bodied in weight. High toned cherry and cassis flavors are juicy and satisfying, with added tones of roasted tomatoes and menthol providing complexity. The texture is polished, the tannins have a talc aspect, and the finish is fruity. Pair with ratatouille.”
Excellent – Wine Press Northwest, Spring 2010 issue

“The Fries family operates two large wineries, Duck Pond in Dundee, Ore., and Desert Wind in Prosser, Wash. For some wines, the grapes cross the Columbia River, as is the case with what essentially is an estate vineyard. This wine opens with aromas of red cherry candy, mint and orange oil, followed by flavors of ripe Van cherries, cranberries and hints of chocolate. It's a bright wine with soft tannins, making this an approachable, food-worthy red.”
88 points/Silver Medal/Highly Recommended - 2009 World Wine Challenge

“Brilliant deep ruby color. Aromas of orange caramel fudge, pizza pie, and raspberry jam follow through on a soft, vibrant entry to a fruity medium body with a nice chocolate mint note. Finishes with a crisp, refreshing fade. A zesty sipper or pair with bbq or pizza.”
Bronze Medal – 2009 San Francisco International Wine Competition
Chuck Hill’s Wine of the Week “More Great Merlots” – October 5, 2009
“This tasty Merlot shows a good balance between fruitiness, oak nuances and complexity from bottle age.  The Wahluke Slope origin is starting to become well known for Merlot from many producers.  Look for smoky plum and blackberry aromas leading to a rich berry/cherry palate with a finish of smoky vanilla and dark chocolate. Very enjoyable with chicken gourmet sausages.”