Christopher Michael Washington Red Blend 2016 (750ml)

2016 was one of the earliest growing seasons on record. April and May were warm and dry with temperatures hitting above 100 by early June. Not only did the growing season start out early, but it was also one of the longest harvests on records. Grapes started rolling in by mid-August and there were still pickers out in the fields well into November. This long season allowed grapes to ripen slow and steady. Finally some cool temperatures arrived midsummer and continued through harvest which helped preserve freshness and balance in the resulting wines. The base of this blend is Merlot which lends fresh red and blue fruit to the aromatics and bring a lushness to the palate. The Cabernet Sauvignon adds layers of cassis and currant to the nose and adds length to the palate while the Syrah ties it all together. There’s a touch of Tannat that gives the wine a structural framework. It was aged on 25% new French oak which plays a nice supporting role in the background of this wine from the nose through the palate. Blend: 46% Merlot, 36% Syrah, 11% Cab Sauvignon, 7% Tannat