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Ciel Du Cheval

2005 Red Mountain Merlot

Jm Cellars Ciel Du Cheval Merlot from the 2005 vintage is a stunning expression of the Red Mountain region, showcasing the area's ability to produce powerful yet elegant wines. This red wine features a full-bodied structure that envelops the palate with lush textures. The acidity is high, providing a vibrant backbone that enhances its complexity while giving it a refreshing quality. The fruit intensity is prominent, revealing rich flavors of ripe black cherry and plum, perfectly balanced by subtle undertones of spice and earthiness. This Merlot exhibits notable tannins that are firm yet smooth, contributing to its age-worthiness and allowing it to develop beautifully over time. With a dry character, this wine pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes, making it an excellent choice for any special occasion or cozy gathering.

Tasting notes:


Black Cherry

Black Cherry

Oak

Oak

Chocolate

Chocolate

Flavor profile:


Acidity Mild

Low Pronounced

Body Medium

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Tannin Medium

Low Pronounced

Region:


Washington
Washington

With 18 recognized AVAs, Washington is the second-largest wine-producing state in the United States. Most of these AVAs are located in the east, centered around the valleys of Walla Walla, the Columbia River and Yakima. The grape varieties that thrive here are numerous: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Gris all continue to make increasingly compelling wines. Washington wines thrive in dry, semi-arid conditions far from the Pacific Ocean and are protected from the Pacific Northwest rain shadow by the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. Washington owes its unique terroir to the historic Missoula Floods, which swept through the region 10,000 years ago, stripping away the earth and replacing it with sandy soils from modern-day Utah, Idaho and Montana.

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