Covale Cellars Merlot 2022
After almost 30 years of winemaking, primarily with Quilceda Creek Vintners, and a short retirement, Marv Crum returned to his passion in 2017 after a close group of friends encouraged him to make a barrel of Cabernet Sauvignon.
The fruit was sourced from Quintessence Vineyard on Red Mountain. These grapes were fermented in fruit bins, in our garage and then aged in new French Oak barrels. The resulting wine confirmed to Marv that he was able to procure a high quality grape source and make a great wine, and he knew he needed to start making wine commercially again.
In 2020 with Marv’s wife Susan, Covale Cellars was created. In the past 3 years they have created wines with optimal flavors, aromas and color. The result is high quality red varietal wines that are intense, rich and complex.
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Varietal Composition | 95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc |
| Appellation | Red Mountain |
| Vineyard | Quintessence Vineyard |
| Alcohol | 14.90% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Country of Origin | UNITED STATES |
| State of Origin | Washington |
| Artificially Carbonated | No |
| Sparkling Wine | No |
Most people think of Merlot to be the softer, prettier red compared to the more masculine Cabernet. But this Merlot changes that perception quickly, with it's more Bordeaux like structure and finish. After decanting for an hour the blue and black fruits such as plum and blackberry along with a bit of olive, a touch of amaro flavors, and some woodsy background notes jump out, and the tannins soften a bit. If you decide to not cellar this wine, decant it and give it a little time to mellow and open up, and we'll all be glad you were patient. - David LeClaire, Sommelier
