2023 Merlot | Mêlée | Columbia Gorge AVA

Medieval combat was a visceral and unforgiving affair that epitomized the clash of steel and will. Combat typically began in ordered formations but often dissolved into a chaotic mêlée, a tumultuous dance of skill and savagery. Soldiers engaged in hand-to-hand combat using an array of weapons, including pikes, swords, axes, maces, and daggers. This is where individual prowess and technique came into play as soldiers and combatants maneuvered for advantage. Victory hinged on discipline, courage, strength, and the interplay of weaponry, tactics, and willpower. Amidst the din of clashing metal, the medieval mêlée embodied courage and survival, shaping the course of history with every blow.

» Winemaking notes:
Named Mêlée because the grapes are so tough that they require aggressive punch-downs with tools, fists, and even stomping to extract the juice. Aged for 18 months on the lees and in Hungarian Med+ toasted oak. Contains natural and added sulfites for freshness. No additional additives, preservatives, animal products, or residual sugar. 

• Dry – no residual sugar
• No fining agents or animal products used
• Malolactic fermented

» Tasting notes: 
Aromas of ripe blackberry and plum lead into a supple palate layered with dark cherry and cocoa. Soft tannins and gentle acidity create a smooth, approachable finish.

» Ingredients:
Organic merlot grapes, water, yeast*, nutrient*, lactic acid bacteria*, sulfite. 
*Yeast, bacteria, and nutrients were used during fermentation and removed by natural settling and filtration.

» Specs:
100 cases produced
13.9% Alc./Vol.
750 mL 
pH: 3.8 | TA 5.2 g/L
Vineyard: Foxley Estate Vineyards – Veteran Owned
AVA: Columbia Gorge