2016

Trine

United States, Washington

$75 USD

Release Price

Drink Window

14.5

ABV

pH

TA

RS

From The Winemaker

The word ‘trine’ (it rhymes with ‘wine’) is defined as a close group of three, and this wine pays homage to the families of Pepper Bridge: the McKibbens, the Murphys, and Pellets. As with our Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, Trine showcases the best of our Walla Walla Valley estate vineyards. However, it allows Winemaker Jean-François Pellet more freedom of expression since it is a creative blend rather than a varietal-based wine. Each vintage will contain a unique combination of Bordeaux’s traditional five red grapes.

Growing Conditions

The 2016 vintage was full of surprises, starting with the warmest April on record. Bud break happened two weeks early at the beginning of April with increasing temperatures and maturation through May and June. Temperatures peaked in early June, followed by rains in July that brought cooler weather. This allowed the vineyards to slow down and pushed harvest closer to average pick times. The cool summer months resulted in beautiful aromatics and elegant mouthfeel that are the key elements of wines from the Walla Walla Valley. With the warm start and long cool finish, picking started in late August and finished by mid-October, just before a long spell of rain.

Nose

Bright Cabernet Franc notes meet you right up front. Ripe red raspberry and cassis are followed closely by hints of sage brush, cocoa powder, and rose petal. Light notes of strawberry, leather, and pencil shavings also make an appearance on the finish.

Palate

Upon first sip, beautifully full red fruit mingles with savory edges to create a round yet complex palate. Velvety smooth tannins roll into a full finish.