Pepper Bridge Walla Walla Valley Merlot 2017

Wine Advocate : 90 Points

(12/10/2020) With the addition of 12% Cabernet Franc and 12% Malbec, the 2017 Merlot opens to a proper frame of aromas with dusty plum and black cherry, with hints of black tea and dried sage in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, the wine offers a delightful expression of Merlot with a mineral tension that gives way to lifting tannins. Food-friendly in its youth, the wine ends with a lingering finish. Just under 12,000 bottles were produced. Drink Date: 2020 - 2028.

Wine Enthusiast : 91 Points

(7/1/2020) The aromas are tightly wound out of the gate, with notes of spice, bittersweet chocolate and dark raspberry. Mouthwatering, medium-bodied flavors follow. It brings a pleasing, if firm, sense of tannic structure, needing some time in the cellar for the tannins to integrate. Best after 2024.

James Suckling : 91 Points

(4/9/2020) Pretty sweet-berry, chocolate and black-olive character. Medium to full body. Hints of cedar. Very attractive now. A blend of 76% merlot, 12% cabernet franc and 12% malbec. Drink and enjoy.

Jeb Dunnuck : 91 Points

(4/15/2020) The deep ruby/plum-hued 2017 Merlot (76% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and 12% Malbec) is a medium to full-bodied, nicely textured 2017 that shows the more streamlined, elegant style of the vintage nicely. Offering plenty of chocolaty red and black fruits, dried herbs, and earth, it has ample character as well as length and should evolve for 10-15 years.