2020 Estate Nebbiolo
Vineyard and Terroir
Located in the Walla Walla Valley, Dugger Creek Vineyard sits on well-drained Ellisforde loam with terraced deposits of blown-in loess. This cooler 18-acre site is ideal for producing Nebbiolo with vibrant acidity and complex, high-toned red fruit character. Featuring Clone 1 and Lampia Clone Nebbiolo, the vineyard’s unique terroir brings elegance, structure, and aging potential to this limited-release wine.
Production
Watermill has cultivated Nebbiolo at Dugger Creek Vineyard for over a decade, with this highly anticipated release limited to just 61 cases. Crafted from 75% Clone 1 and 25% Lampia Clone Nebbiolo, the wine was fermented in 2-ton stainless steel fermenters using BRL97 Barolo yeast to enhance fruit expression and structure. It was then aged for 18 months in neutral oak barrels, allowing the purity of the varietal and terroir to shine through.
Tasting Notes
This medium-bodied Nebbiolo opens with expressive aromas of dark cherry, ripe raspberries, and delicate dried floral notes. The palate reveals layers of dark chocolate, leather, and subtle hints of cigar box, balanced by lively acidity and smooth, refined tannins. Elegant and complex, this wine is a favorite among our wine club members and tasting room guests, offering immediate enjoyment and the intriguing potential to age gracefully, evolving in character over time.
