Blending Wines
Merf regards the two dozen or more wine lots he works with each year as “a spice rack” to help him create Northstar’s world-class Merlots. The use of other traditional Bordeaux varietals allows him to add just the right amount of texture and complexity to the Merlots, always with a touch of Washington’s New World personality.
2007 Cabernet Franc
This limited production wine showcases Cabernet Franc, which grows particularly well in the Walla Walla appellation. A single vineyard is showcased in this 2007 release: Minnick Hills Vineyard, just north of downtown Walla Walla.
Tasting Notes
Aromas of mint and sage lead into green olive, white chocolate, coconut, and vanilla flavors with a slightly smoky finish. Enjoy!
Technical Data
- Alcohol Content: 14.4%
- Total Acidity: 0.50 g/100 ml
- pH Level: 3.75
- Download fact sheet
- Past vintage fact sheets: 2006
2007 Petit Verdot
This limited production 100% Petit Verdot was sourced solely from one of our favorite sites in the Columbia Valley, Stone Tree Vineyard on Wahluke Slope.
“Known for a rich deep color and exotic aromas, Petit Verdot fruit is a key component of Northstar’s flagship Merlot.”
Tasting Notes
Dark and inky in color, this 100% Petit Verdot exudes smooth aromas of violet, graham cracker and circus peanut, and layered flavors of plum, eucalyptus and vanilla. A robust wine to enjoy on its own or with a hearty steak.
Technical Data
- Alcohol Content: 15.0%
- Total Acidity: 0.55 g/100ml
- pH Level: 3.79
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- Past vintage fact sheets: 2006
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon from our favorite vineyards go into the creation of this limited release. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon blend consists of fruit from three distinct vineyard blocks which include Anna Marie, Kiona, and Shaw Red Mountain vineyards.
Tasting Notes
This rich, fruity, dark, full-bodied wine leads with cherry, raspberry, vanilla, and maple with a long chocolate graham cracker finish.
Technical Data
- Alcohol Content: 14.9%
- Total Acidity: 0.54g/100mL
- pH Level: 3.75
- Download fact sheet
- Past vintage fact sheets: 2005
2006 Syrah
Minnick Hills and Anna Marie vineyards contributed to this 100% Syrah. Winemaker David Merfeld works closely with each grower to achieve specific fruit quality and yield parameters.
Tasting Notes
This big, jammy wine has layers of flavors, displaying blackberry, blueberry, vanilla, orange peel, coconut, plum and white pepper. Full bodied, lush and robust on the palate with a long finish.
Technical Data
- Alcohol Content: 14.9%
- Total Acidity: 0.58 g/100mL
- pH Level: 3.83
- Download fact sheet
- Past vintage fact sheets: 2004