- 91% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc
- Quintessence, Klipsun, Weinbau, and Obelisco vineyards (Columbia Valley AVA)
- 100% destemmed and fermented on their skins for an average 8 days
- Aged 20 months in 50% new French oak, 50% once used
- Racked every 6 months
- 978 cases produced
- 14.4% abv
Columbia Valley vineyards grow Merlot that gives Washington winemakers a reason to smile. With the grapes our winemaker uses from the state’s top vineyards, Januik consistently turns out Merlot with that WOW-factor that leaves wine drinkers smiling. Raspberry, vanilla and spice notes fill the glass. The finish is long and lush.
Info
Producer:
Vintage:
2022
Country:
United States
Region:
Washington
Appellation:
Columbia Valley
Variety:
Merlot
Color:
Red
Sizes Available
| Full Bottle | US-JNK-20-22 | 12/750ml |
Press & Reviews
James Suckling
Score
92
Date
2025-03-31
"Textured and succulent, this merlot exudes black raspberries, cassis and spiced plums, layered with touches of cedar and mocha. Medium- to full-bodied with fine, polished tannins. Long finish with hints of lavender and graphite. Drink or hold."
Wine Spectator
Score
91
Date
2025-12-04
"Sleek and sinewy, with expressive accents of red currant, mocha and tomato leaf that end with refined tannins. 1,232 cases made. - TF"
Vinous
Score
90
Date
2024-12-05
"Dusty and floral, the 2022 Merlot slowly evolves in the glass with a bouquet of wilted violets and dried blueberries. This is elegant and supple with ripe red and blue fruits, creamy textures and a core of fresh acidity to balance it all out. The 2022 tapers off with medium length, gentle tannins and a tactile mineral crunchiness."
Wine Enthusiast
Score
90
Date
2026-03-20
"A sweet aroma of blackberry jam spread on a slice of warm sourdough bread is counterpointed by a puff of pipe tobacco. The sweet fruit theme continues on the palate, as flavors of blueberry pie and black pepper mix with a savory grilled portabello note. There™sa good bit of oakiness here to accompany the Merlot™s sturdy tannins. "M.A."