2022 L'Ecole 41 Frenchtown Red Columbia Valley (750ml)
2022 L'Ecole No. 41 – Frenchtown Red, Columbia Valley (750ml)
From the historic Frenchtown School label, L'Ecole No. 41's Frenchtown Red is a Columbia Valley blend that honors the early French Canadian vintners who planted vines in the Walla Walla Valley. The 2022 vintage draws on grapes grown across the Columbia Valley, with Merlot as the backbone and a carefully selected mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Mourvèdre. After fermentation, the wine spent approximately nine months in mostly neutral oak, followed by six months resting in bottle to preserve fruit purity and avoid overpowering oak influence. The result is a medium-bodied red that embodies the winery’s Rhône and Bordeaux-influenced style.
Wine profile
Frenchtown Red showcases a fruit-forward, expressive character with a balanced structure. The blend’s diverse grape components contribute depth and versatility, making it a flexible partner for a range of dishes while offering approachable complexity for everyday enjoyment.
Tasting notes
- Core fruit: dark cherry, blueberry, and red plum
- Aromatics: anise, thyme, and violet
- Tannins: finely textured
- Finish: juicy and well balanced
Winemaking and style
- Blend composition: Merlot backbone with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Mourvèdre
- Style influence: Rhône and Bordeaux-inspired
- Aging: about nine months in mostly neutral oak, then six months in bottle before release
Food pairings
- Grilled meats
- Tomato-based pasta dishes
- Aged cheeses