Red Diamond Merlot (75cl, 14.5%)

Red Diamond Merlot is a Washington State red wine blend from Red Diamond Winery in Paterson, Washington. It is built on 79% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Syrah. Fermentation takes place over six to ten days on the skins with twice-daily pump-overs, then the wine matures for over 12 months in stainless steel tanks and a mix of French and American oak barrels. The nose opens with ripe blackberry and black cherry, then plum and baking spice, with toasty oak and subtle vanilla. The entry is juicy and fruit-forward with blackberry and plum, moving to medium-bodied but firm tannins, cherry compote and spice. The finish is smooth and moderate, with lingering toasty oak and a gentle echo of dark fruit.