Planted along the banks for the Columbia River, at the southern tip of Horse Heaven Hills AVA, Alder Ridge Vineyard’s site selection is second to none. Benefiting from the warmer continental climate of Columbia Valley’s growing season, but with cooling effects from the proximity of the river, high winds from the gorge, and large drops in nighttime temperatures- a beautiful balance of enough heat to optimally ripen but cool enough to retain the fruit’s vibrancy.
This Mourvèdre was sourced from Alder Ridge Vineyard’s Block 29A, which is settled at low elevations along the riverbank- one of the hottest parts of the vineyard. This location, along with the high winds from the gorge, allow the grape skins to thicken, resulting in highly concentrated, rich flavors.
There’s always what seems to be the perfect pick of the season, and our 2021 Mourvèdre happened to be it. The balance of tannin, acidity and flavor for this wine was on point as soon as the grapes hit the fermenter. Aged for 16 months in barrel using a combination once-filled and neutral French oak. This wine is full of botanicals on the bouquet and palate- a depth of floral, herbaceous and spicy notes fill the glass with an underlying red fruit dominance of cherry & strawberry. The combination of acidity and tannin will allow this wine to cellar gracefully for years to come.