Item Number: 6707 UPC: 0721354200419

Country: USA
Region: Oregon Sub Region: Columbia Valley
Appellation/AVA: Walla Walla Valley
Estate Grown Wine: Yes
Vineyard Designation: Seven Hills Vineyard
Vintage: 2010
Grape(s): 60% Cabernet Sauvignon / 15% Merlot / 10% Cabernet Franc / 10% Malbec / 5% Petit Verdot
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750ml Pack: 6
Closure: Cork
Case Production: 1,110
Alc by Vol(%): 14.5
Total Acidity: 6.4
pH: 3.73
Soil Type: Wind-blown loess
Winemaker Notes: "Our Estate Perigee captures the essence of Seven Hills Vineyard’s characteristic rich elegance, seductive aromas and earthy structure. L’Ecole has been producing wines from Seven Hills Vineyard since 1993. We hand-select our oldest and most distinguished blocks to produce this stunning, flagship wine."

About Seven Hills Vineyard: L’Ecole N o 41 is a partner in the 230 acre acclaimed Seven Hills Vineyard, which is planted in wind-blown loess of geologically young and mineral rich soils. Originally planted in 1981, this Certified Sustainable and Certified Salmon Safe vineyard was recognized as one of the Ten Great Vineyards of the World by Wine & Spirits Magazine.

Vintage Notes: 2010 was one of the coolest growing years in Washington State in memorable history. While this presented many challenges, in the end it proved to be one of the most promising vintages in a decade. A cool and wet spring set the stage for a later than normal bud break with a light set during bloom in June. In July lower than normal berry weight growth contributed to significantly lower yields. Veraison was delayed, right in line with the cool 1999 growing season, one of Washington’s star vintages. A prolonged and welcome Indian summer delivered higher than normal temperatures and sunshine during all of October. Higher natural acidity, longer hang-time and concentrated fruit from low yields resulted in brilliant color, flavor intensity and overall balance.

Winemaking Notes: Each lot was hand harvested ripe and gently crushed into 1.5 and 5 ton open- topped stainless steel fermenters. Gentle handling of the fruit through hand punch downs and gravity assisted movements were utilized throughout the entire winemaking process. The wine was cleanly racked to 100% small French oak barrels, 50% new, with five rackings over 22 months.

Tasting Notes: Perigee exemplifies this vineyard’s characteristic cedary, black cherry, richly structured elegance. Vibrant aromas of baking spice, blueberry, plum and fresh floral notes are accented with earthy minerality, exuding power and grace on a chalky tannin finish.