L'ECOLE NO. 41

SEMILLON 2022

COLUMBIA VALLEY

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Vintage: 2022
Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA, Washington State
Vineyards: Klipsun (25%), Stillwater Creek (24%), Seven Hills (20%), Lodmell (16%), Rosebud (15%)
Varietal Composition: 85% Semillon, 15% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol: 14.0% ABV
Residual Sugar: 0.3 g/L (Dry)
Total Acidity: 5.9 g/L
pH: 3.32
Harvest Date: September 8 - October 1, 2022
Fermentation: Stainless steel (80%), Neutral oak (20%)
Bottling Date: February 2023
Release Date: April 2023
Closure: Screwcap
Production: 4,580 cases
Aging Potential: 3-5 years

VITICULTURE

Sourced from five distinctive vineyard sites across the Columbia Valley AVA, each contributing unique characteristics to the final blend. Klipsun Vineyard on Red Mountain provides structure and richness, while Stillwater Creek in the Frenchman Hills contributes aromatic complexity. Seven Hills in the Walla Walla Valley offers elegant minerality, Lodmell adds depth, and Rosebud in the Wahluke Slope brings ripe fruit character. The 2022 growing season began with a cool spring followed by moderate summer temperatures and minimal rainfall, allowing for steady ripening and excellent phenolic development. Harvest occurred under ideal conditions with cool nights preserving natural acidity.

VINIFICATION

Hand-harvested grapes were whole-cluster pressed to preserve fresh aromatics and minimize phenolic extraction. The juice was cold settled for 48 hours before being racked off gross lees. Primary fermentation occurred in a combination of stainless steel tanks (80%) and neutral French oak barrels (20%) at cool temperatures (55-60°F) using selected yeasts that enhance varietal character. Following fermentation, the wine was aged on fine lees for five months with regular stirring to develop texture and complexity. The final blend was assembled in January 2023, with bottling taking place in February.

TASTING NOTES

Appearance: Bright, clear pale gold with slight green highlights.

Nose: Aromatic and complex with pronounced notes of ripe pear, Meyer lemon, and fresh fig. Secondary aromas of honeysuckle, beeswax, and lanolin are complemented by subtle hints of freshly cut hay and wet stone minerality. The oak influence is nearly imperceptible, contributing only a whisper of vanilla and spice.

Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a rich, round mouthfeel balanced by vibrant acidity. The palate mirrors the nose with flavors of yellow apple, Bartlett pear, and citrus zest, complemented by honey, almond, and a distinctive lanolin character typical of fine Semillon. The Sauvignon Blanc component adds brightness and lift, while the partial barrel fermentation contributes textural complexity. The finish is long and elegant with lingering notes of lemon curd and mineral.

FOOD PAIRING

This versatile Semillon pairs beautifully with Pacific Northwest seafood, especially Dungeness crab, pan-seared scallops, or halibut with lemon butter sauce. Also excellent with poultry dishes such as herb-roasted chicken, creamy pasta preparations, or dishes featuring mushrooms. The wine's texture and complexity make it an excellent partner for soft and semi-soft cheeses including triple cream brie, camembert, and young gouda.

ABOUT L'ECOLE NO. 41

Founded in 1983 by Jean and Baker Ferguson, L'Ecole No. 41 is a third-generation family-owned artisan winery located in the historic Frenchtown School in Walla Walla Valley. The name means "the school" in French, referring to the schoolhouse building that houses the winery. Under the leadership of Marty Clubb (Managing Winemaker) and his team, L'Ecole has established a reputation for consistent quality and is recognized as one of Washington State's most prestigious wineries. They are particularly known for their work with Semillon, having produced this varietal consistently for over 35 years - longer than any other Washington winery.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Serve chilled but not too cold, between 48-52°F (9-11°C). The wine will benefit from 15-20 minutes in the glass to fully develop its aromatic complexity. While delightful upon release, this Semillon will continue to evolve and gain complexity for 3-5 years when properly stored.