2020 McClellan Vineyard Estate Petit Verdot
Vineyard and Terroir
McClellan Vineyard, located where the Walla Walla Valley floor meets the rolling Palouse Hills, spans 16 acres of shallow silt loam soils at low elevation. Combined with the vineyard’s strategic use of Fan Trellis and Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) systems, these ideal conditions encourage balanced ripening and concentrated fruit flavors. This site consistently produces complex, fruit-forward Bordeaux varietals with exceptional depth and character.
Production
Crafted exclusively from McClellan Vineyard fruit, this 100% Petit Verdot is a limited release of just 75 cases. The grapes underwent fermentation in stainless steel tanks with twice-daily pump-overs to preserve varietal purity and enhance structure. The wine was then aged for 22 months in 75% new French oak barrels sourced from various premium coopers, building complexity and richness while allowing the vibrant fruit flavors to remain at the forefront.
Tasting Notes
This bold Petit Verdot opens with expressive aromas of blackberries, creamy cassis, wild berries, lilac, and violets. Rich blueberry cobbler flavors are layered on the palate with a generous, velvety mouthfeel. The shallow silt loam soils and Fan Trellis system contribute to the wine’s firm structure and luxurious texture. While delicious now, this wine will reward cellaring for 3 to 5 years, evolving in greater depth and nuance.
