Merlot Two Vines
⏳ wine.drinking_window
Typically best enjoyed within 1–3 years of vintage release.
🍽️ wine.food_pairings
Grilled pork chops, roasted chicken, pasta with marinara sauce
✨ wine.spec_sheet
The 'Two Vines' designation from Columbia Crest pays homage to a classic vineyard trellising method where two vines are trained to grow along a single wire, maximizing their exposure to the generous Washington State sunshine while maintaining excellent canopy airflow. Sourced from the sun-drenched vineyards of the Columbia Valley, this Merlot benefits from the dramatic rain shadow effect of the Cascade Mountains, which creates a semi-arid climate with warm, bright days and crisp, cool nights. This diurnal temperature swing allows the grapes to develop lush, ripe fruit flavors while preserving a vibrant natural acidity. Crafted in an approachable, fruit-forward style, the wine undergoes traditional fermentation and light oak aging to soften its tannins, resulting in a velvety, easy-drinking red that captures the friendly, inviting side of Washington viticulture.
🍾 wine.about_producer
Established in 1983 in Paterson, Washington, along the banks of the Columbia River, Columbia Crest is one of the Pacific Northwest's most significant and celebrated wineries. Owned by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, the winery operates a state-of-the-art facility in the Columbia Valley, combining modern gravity-flow techniques with traditional oak barrel aging. Columbia Crest is renowned for delivering exceptional quality and value, showcasing the region's unique terroir through its Grand Estates, H3, and Two Vines series. Their signature expressions include robust Cabernet Sauvignon, velvety Merlot, and the prestigious Walter Clore Private Reserve, which honors the pioneer of Washington viticulture. This dedication to craft has cemented their reputation as a benchmark producer of Washington State wine on the global stage.