Northstar Merlot, 2021 (Violet)

Northstar's 2021 Columbia Valley Merlot represents their dedication to Bordeaux-style wines, combining fruit from Washington's finest vineyards with winemaker David "Merf" Merfeld's expertise to create a concentrated, age-worthy expression.

INTRODUCTION
This Columbia Valley Merlot showcases Northstar's commitment to crafting world-class Bordeaux-style wines, featuring a careful selection of fruit from premium vineyard sites and meticulous winemaking practices.

VINTAGE CONDITIONS 2021
- Very warm growing season
- Cool nights during harvest
- Intensely concentrated flavors
- Excellent natural acidity
- Dark, dense red wines

TECHNICAL DETAILS
BLEND
- 82% Merlot
- 18% Cabernet Sauvignon

SPECIFICATIONS
- Alcohol: 14.5%
- TA: 0.50 g/100 mL
- pH: 3.82
- Production: 4,993 cases

VINEYARD SOURCES
Merlot:
- Shaw Red Mountain
- Four Feathers
- James
- Cold Creek
- Bacchus

Cabernet Sauvignon:
- Cold Creek
- Four Feathers

WINEMAKING
- 40% whole berry fermentation
- 20 months aging
- 100% French oak (36% new)
- Quarterly racking
- Malolactic fermentation in barrel

TASTING PROFILE
AROMATICS
- Black cherry
- Raspberry
- Mint
- Cream

PALATE
- Dark chocolate
- Graham cracker
- Cedar
- Lush texture
- Bright acidity

FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS
- Dry rubbed boneless pork ribs
- Prime rib with shiitake mushroom risotto
- Herb roasted chicken
- Grilled spiced cauliflower

AGING POTENTIAL
Enjoyable now with potential for graceful aging

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